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Showing posts with the label astronomy

The Hydrogen Line: Exploring Its Role in Space Science

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 The hydrogen line, also known as the 21-centimetre line, is a distinct electromagnetic emission arising from neutral hydrogen atoms. This emission is a cornerstone in the field of radio astronomy due to its unique properties and significance in understanding the universe. Wavelength and Frequency: The hydrogen line is characterized by its specific wavelength of 21 centimetres, which corresponds to a frequency of 1420.4 MHz in the radio spectrum. This precise wavelength makes it particularly useful for astronomers to observe and map neutral hydrogen in the interstellar medium. Origin: The origin of the hydrogen line lies in the hyperfine transition of the ground state of neutral hydrogen atoms. This transition occurs when there is a change in the spin state of the electron relative to the proton within the hydrogen atom. In more detail, the electron and proton in a hydrogen atom can have their spins aligned in either the same direction (parallel) or in opposite directions (anti-p...

Space Startup's SAR on a HAP

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 Bengaluru-based space tech company, Galaxeye Space, has achieved a major milestone. They successfully flew their own synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) developed by the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Pune. This test flight, conducted in May 2024, marks a significant leap in Earth observation technology for India. SAR is a powerful radar system that can create high-resolution images of the Earth's surface, even through clouds or darkness. Traditionally, SAR has been flown on satellites, but this approach can be expensive and time-consuming. HAPS offers a unique alternative. These are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed to operate at very high altitudes for extended periods, providing a more accessible platform for SAR technology. Galaxeye Space's achievement demonstrates the potential of HAPS for Earth observation. This successful test paves the way for more affordable and responsive data collection, with applications in dis...

The Spectacular Journey of India's Space Program Over the Last Decade

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 Over the past decade, India's space program has soared to unprecedented heights, marking significant milestones and achievements that have propelled the nation into the global space arena. However, to truly appreciate the magnitude of these accomplishments, it is essential to reflect on the evolution of India's space sector over the last fifty years. India's journey in space exploration began in 1969 with the establishment of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). From humble beginnings, ISRO has evolved into a powerhouse of innovation and technological prowess, consistently pushing the boundaries of space exploration. In the last decade alone, India has made remarkable strides in various aspects of space exploration. One of the most notable achievements is the successful launch of the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2013, making India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit and the fourth space agency in the world to do so. This historic mission not only ...