SciTech Express

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...

As the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) advances steadily towards launching its maiden human spaceflight mission — Gaganyaan — the emphasis on spaceflight safety has never been more crucial. India is on the brink of joining an elite group of nations capable of sending humans to space, and ISRO is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that every stage of the mission, from liftoff to landing, adheres to global safety standards. Gaganyaan is poised to become a landmark achievement in India’s space exploration journey. It aims to send three astronauts into low Earth orbit (LEO) for up to seven days. While this initial mission is not intended to dock with any space station, the selected crew is being familiarized with docking procedures , a forward-thinking move that prepares them for potential future missions involving orbital rendezvous and space station docking . Ensuring astronaut safety is a complex, multilayered process involving extensive planning, rigorous testing, and ...

In a remarkable step towards strengthening India’s STEM education framework, the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), has launched the IN-SPACe CANSAT and Model Rocketry India Student Competition 2024–25 . This unique competition is crafted for undergraduate students across India, providing them with an opportunity to engage in experiential learning through the design, fabrication, and launch of CANSATs—can-sized satellites—using model rocketry platforms. The event held on June 14, 2025 , in Tamkuhi Raj, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh , was not a full-fledged rocket launch carrying an actual payload. Instead, it served as a critical site and systems validation test in preparation for the upcoming national student competition. This test focused on ensuring the readiness of launch site infrastructure, safety protocols, telemetry systems, and track...

NASA Veteran Mike Massimino Engages with PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya Students On February 28, 2025, former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino visited the PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya in New Delhi, offering students a unique opportunity to interact with an experienced space explorer. Massimino's visit aimed to inspire and educate the young minds about space exploration, sharing his personal experiences and insights. Interactive Session with Students Personal Journey : Massimino recounted his path to becoming an astronaut, highlighting how a film about seven astronauts ignited his passion for space exploration. He emphasized the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving one's dreams. Q&A Session : Students eagerly posed questions about various aspects of space missions, including the types of food consumed in space and daily routines aboard a spacecraft. Massimino provided detailed responses, offering a glimpse into the life of an astronaut. Zero Gravity Experiences Adap...

India has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to revolutionize its aviation training sector with the development of the Electric Hansa (E-HANSA) —a next-generation, two-seater electric trainer aircraft developed indigenously by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) in Bengaluru. Announced by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh during a high-level monthly review meeting, this initiative places India firmly on the global map for sustainable and green aviation technologies . E-HANSA: A Leap Toward Green Aviation The E-HANSA aircraft is India's foray into electric aircraft development , aligning closely with national and global goals for carbon neutrality and clean energy adoption . As the world shifts towards climate-friendly technologies, the aviation industry—a traditionally high-emission sector—is witnessing a paradigm shift. The E-HANSA is expected to serve as a flagship electric trainer aircraft , integrating eco-friend...

The Evolution of the Computer Mouse: A Journey Through Innovation The computer mouse, a humble yet revolutionary input device, has undergone tremendous evolution since its inception. From bulky mechanical rollers to sleek, wireless, and AI-powered peripherals, the journey of the mouse reflects the rapid advancements in computing technology. In this article, we will explore the history, development, and future of the computer mouse while highlighting key innovations along the way. 1. The Birth of the Mouse (1960s) The first computer mouse was invented by Douglas Engelbart in 1964 at the Stanford Research Institute. It was made of wood and had a single button, with a system of wheels for detecting motion. The invention was demonstrated in 1968 in the famous "Mother of All Demos." Engelbart envisioned the mouse as part of a broader interactive computing system to enhance productivity. Key Features of Early Mice: Wooden casing Two metal wheels for movement A single button ...