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...
Lie Detectors: The Science, Technology, and Ethical Debate Introduction Lie detection has long fascinated humanity, from ancient methods like trial by ordeal to modern polygraphs and AI-driven deception analysis. As technology advances, so do the ethical, scientific, and practical implications of lie detectors in criminal justice, workplace monitoring, and national security. What is a Lie Detector? A lie detector, or polygraph, is a device designed to measure physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity to detect deception. The assumption is that when a person lies, involuntary physiological changes occur, which the polygraph records. How Does a Polygraph Work? A traditional polygraph test includes the following steps: Pre-Test Phase: The examiner explains the procedure and asks control questions to establish baseline readings. Data Collection: Electrodes are placed on the subject to measure physiological responses while answeri...