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...
How ‘Microlightning’ in Water Droplets May Have Sparked Life on Earth Introduction: The origin of life on Earth is one of the most profound mysteries in science. For decades, researchers have explored various theories, from primordial soups to hydrothermal vents, to explain how life emerged from non-living matter. Recently, a groundbreaking hypothesis has emerged, suggesting that ‘microlightning’ within water droplets may have played a pivotal role in sparking life on our planet. This fascinating theory combines principles of chemistry, physics, and biology, offering a new perspective on the age-old question: How did life begin? In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the science behind microlightning, explore its potential role in the origin of life, and discuss its implications for our understanding of biology and the universe. What is Microlightning? Microlightning refers to tiny, localized electrical discharges that occur within water droplets. These miniature lightning bolts are genera...