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...
Birefringence Explained: How Light Changes Direction in Anisotropic Materials Introduction to Birefringence Birefringence is a fascinating optical phenomenon where a material exhibits different refractive indices in different directions. This effect, also known as double refraction, occurs due to the anisotropic nature of certain crystals and biological structures. Understanding birefringence is crucial in fields like optics, material science, biomedical imaging, and telecommunications. This blog explores the principles, applications, and scientific advancements related to birefringence. Understanding the Science Behind Birefringence 1. What Causes Birefringence? Birefringence occurs in materials where the atomic structure leads to an orientation-dependent interaction with light. Common causes include: Crystal Anisotropy : Crystals like calcite and quartz have atomic arrangements that cause light to split into two orthogonal polarization components. Mechanical Stress : Applying s...