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🇮🇳 Indian Astronaut Returns to Space After 41 Years: Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Axiom-4 Mission to ISS

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In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...

Graphene: The Wonder Material with Quantum Potential

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Graphene: The Wonder Material with Quantum Potential

Recent Discovery

  • Researchers have discovered a new quantum state in twisted bilayer-trilayer graphene.
  • Electrons in this state form a lattice but still allow resistance-free edge currents, making it valuable for quantum computing.
  • This discovery enhances stability against noise, a major challenge in quantum computing.

What is Graphene?

  • Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice.
  • It is an allotrope of carbon, like graphite and diamond.

Key Properties of Graphene

  1. Thinnest & Lightest Material
    • Only one atom thick.
    • 1,000 times lighter than paper.
  2. Strongest Known Material
    • 200 times stronger than steel.
  3. High Conductivity
    • Conducts electricity better than copper.
    • High thermal conductivity.
  4. Highly Transparent
    • 98% transparent to light.
  5. Flexible and Stretchable
    • Can be used in bendable electronics.
  6. Chemically Stable & Impermeable
    • Does not react easily and prevents gas or liquid penetration.

Applications of Graphene

  • Quantum Computing: New quantum states improve computational stability.
  • Flexible Electronics: Used in bendable displays and wearable devices.
  • Supercapacitors & Batteries: Enhances energy storage efficiency.
  • Biomedical Applications: Used in drug delivery and biosensors.
  • Water Purification: Graphene-based membranes for desalination.
  • Aerospace & Defense: Lightweight yet strong material for space tech.

Future Potential

  • Graphene’s unique electronic and quantum properties could revolutionize:
    • Ultra-fast computing
    • Transparent solar panels
    • Next-gen AI chips

This recent discovery in bilayer-trilayer graphene further strengthens its role in next-generation quantum devices.


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