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31 May 2024

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31-05-2024

12:00:AM

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GS 3 : Science and Tech

Agnikul Cosmos, an Indian space startup, successfully launched its sub-orbital test vehicle, Agnibaan SOrTeD.

Significance:

First in India: Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator) is powered by the world's first single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic rocket engine (Agnilet).
Second private launch: This is the 2nd launch by a private Indian space startup after Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-S launch in November 2022. This demonstrates the growing capability of the private space sector in India.
Private launchpad: The launch took place from Agnikul's own private launchpad at Sriharikota, a first for a private company.
Semi-cryogenic engine: The rocket uses a semi-cryogenic engine, a technology that uses sub-cooled oxygen as fuel.

Impact:

Lower costs: 3D printing technology could significantly reduce launch costs and assembly time.
Affordable access to space: Agnikul aims to offer affordable launch services for small satellites, opening up new possibilities for research, communication, and other applications.
Technological advancement: The successful launch demonstrates India's growing expertise in space technology and innovation.

Organisations Involved:

Agnikul Cosmos (IIT Madras-incubated startup)
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre)

GS 2 – Social Justice : Health

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBD is a chronic autoimmune condition where the white blood cells or the body’s soldiers mistakenly identify cells in the human gut as their enemy and decide to attack it, causing ulcers in the mucosa.
As a result children may develop fever, abdominal pain, loose stools and at times bloody diarrhoea.