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...
Nanopore Technology: Revolutionizing Disease Diagnosis and Real-Time Genetic Sequencing Content Introduction : Scientists have developed a nanopore-based tool capable of diagnosing illnesses with greater speed and precision by analyzing molecular signals in real time. What is Nanopore Technology? Refers to nano-scale holes embedded in thin membranes that detect potential changes as charged biological molecules (e.g., DNA or RNA) pass through these holes. It allows direct sequencing of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from biological samples without complex preparation. How It Works : Biological molecules passing through the nanopore cause changes in the electrical signal. These signals are analyzed to determine the molecular structure or genetic sequence. Applications : Genetic Sequencing : Enables fast, real-time DNA/RNA sequencing for genetic research and clinical diagnostics. Disease Marker Detection : Detects biomarkers associated with diseases at an early stage. Cancer Diagnosis :...