In a major leap toward self-reliance in defense technology, India is set to develop its very own fifth-generation fighter jet—the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) . In a historic move, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved an innovative execution model for the indigenous stealth fighter programme. This model brings together Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and private industry players in a competitive framework, marking a significant shift in how India approaches military aviation manufacturing. This bold initiative comes at a critical time, as China has already fielded two fifth-generation fighters , and reports indicate it will supply 40 J-35 stealth jets to Pakistan . Against this backdrop, fast-tracking the AMCA has become an urgent national security imperative. AMCA: India’s Indigenous Stealth Fighter Dream The AMCA project , spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) , received its l...
Discovery of Sub-Saturn Exoplanet Using PARAS-2 Spectrograph
Introduction to the Discovery
- Scientists at the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), India, have discovered a new dense exoplanet using the PARAS-2 Spectrograph at Mt Abu Telescope.
- The newly found exoplanet falls in the Sub-Saturn category, which is a transition region between Neptune-like and gas giant planets.
Understanding PARAS-2 Spectrograph
- PARAS-2 (PRL Advanced Radial velocity Abu Sky Search) Spectrograph is an advanced high-resolution fiber-fed spectrograph.
- It is designed to analyze light from distant exoplanets to determine their composition, atmosphere, and movement.
- It is currently Asia’s highest-resolution spectrograph, ensuring high precision and sensitivity.
Role of Spectrographs in Exoplanet Discovery
- A spectrograph is an instrument that breaks down light into its spectrum, helping scientists analyze planetary atmospheres, star compositions, and orbital patterns.
- Using Doppler shift measurements, scientists detect the presence of exoplanets by observing their influence on their host stars.
Significance of This Discovery
- This discovery expands our understanding of exoplanetary formation and evolution.
- It confirms that India’s advancements in astronomy and observational technology are competing at a global level.
- The Sub-Saturn exoplanet bridges the gap between Neptune-sized planets and gas giants, helping astronomers understand planetary classification and development.
Future Prospects
- The discovery paves the way for further space explorations and study of habitable exoplanets.
- The PARAS-2 Spectrograph will continue contributing to detecting new exoplanets with greater accuracy.
- This achievement strengthens India's position in global space research and its role in the search for Earth-like planets.