GalaxEye's Mission Drishti (190 kg) Launched via SpaceX: World's First OptoSAR Satellite for All-Weather Imaging

Doppler Weather Radars: 51st DWR Inaugurated at Sambalpur Under Mission Mausam

India's 51st Doppler Weather Radar was inaugurated in Sambalpur, Odisha, boosting weather forecasting under Mission Mausam. This expansion enhances early warning systems for cyclones, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall, a core exam topic for disaster management and science-tech.

India’s First LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel Train Launched by ICF; Compare with Hydrogen Train for UPSC

Indian Railways launched its first LNG-diesel dual-fuel train from Sabarmati on September 27, 2026, following the hydrogen train debut in July. This is a high-yield topic for UPSC Prelims (Science & Tech, Environment) and Mains (GS-3: infrastructure, alternative fuels). The article also explains Kavach (Automatic Train Protection system) – a recurring Prelims favourite.

Indian Railways Launches First LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel DEMU Train; 40% Diesel Replacement, Rs 23.9 Lakh Annual Savings

Indian Railways has launched its first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU train from Sabarmati, Gujarat, capable of replacing 40% diesel consumption. This follows the hydrogen train launched in July 2026, marking a strategic shift towards alternative fuels to reduce costs and emissions. For exam aspirants, this is a key case study in energy transition and infrastructure modernization.

India's First Private Orbital Rocket Vikram-1 Launched July 18; Gaganyaan Parachute Test Qualified

India's first privately developed orbital rocket Vikram-1, built by Skyroot Aerospace, was successfully launched on July 18, 2026, from Sriharikota under 'Mission Aagaman', making India only the third country globally to achieve private orbital launch capability. The article also covers new IN-SPACe re-entry guidelines, Gaganyaan mission progress (SOLVE motor test, IMAT-05 parachute test, crew module qualification), and a Tracxn report revealing SpaceTech funding concentration. Critical for UPSC: space sector reforms, private participation, and ISRO's human spaceflight milestones.

Astrobase Unveils 800kN FFSC Rocket Engine EVEREST – India's First Private FFSC Engine

India has become the fourth nation to develop Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC) rocket engine technology. Bengaluru-based Astrobase Space Technologies unveiled the 800kN EVEREST engine, making India self-reliant in advanced rocket propulsion crucial for reusable launch vehicles. This development positions India's private space industry as a global competitor and is highly relevant for Science & Tech sections of all exams.

NPCIL Commences Fuel Loading at RAPP-8: 4th Indigenous 700 MWe PHWR in Fleet Mode

NPCIL has started initial fuel loading (IFL) at Unit 8 of Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP-8), a 700 MWe indigenous pressurised heavy water reactor (PHWR). This marks a major step in India's fleet-mode nuclear expansion, with commercial operation expected in 2026-27. For exams: understand PHWR technology, AERB's role, and the commissioning sequence (IFL → FAC → power generation).

Subsea Cables Carry 99% Internet Traffic: Vulnerabilities, Ownership Concentration & India's Resilience Plan

Subsea cables carry over 99% of global internet traffic, yet their supply chain is concentrated among a few private players and hyperscalers, making them vulnerable to sabotage, cyberattacks, and economic disruption. Recent NATO, Finland, and China incidents highlight intensifying threats, while India is building repair capacity via a DoT single-window clearance portal. This is a high-yield topic for GS3 infrastructure, science-tech, and security questions.

National Green Hydrogen Mission: 400-500 Buses/Trucks by 2030, Trials on 20 Highways

India's National Green Hydrogen Mission targets 400-500 hydrogen-fuelled heavy-duty buses and trucks by 2030. To achieve this, 70 vehicles have been sanctioned for trials across 20 highways, with the goal of achieving operating cost parity with diesel in 2-3 years.