Science & Technology Current Affairs - 2026-09-22

Background: ISRO is developing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) to enhance India's heavy-lift capabilities. Current Context: On September 21, 2026, ISRO successfully conducted a hot test of the semi-cryogenic engine at the Mahendragiri facility. This engine uses refined kerosene (Isrosene) and liquid oxygen as propellants. Impact: This milestone significantly boosts India's ability to launch heavier payloads into orbit, reducing dependency on foreign launch providers and lowering the cost per kilogram for future space missions, including human spaceflight and deep space exploration.

Background: LIGO-India is a planned advanced gravitational-wave observatory to be located in Maharashtra, part of a global network. Current Context: As of September 2026, the construction of the vacuum infrastructure and the installation of laser interferometry components have reached a critical phase. The project is a collaboration between the Department of Atomic Energy, DST, and international LIGO partners. Impact: Once operational, it will significantly improve the localization of gravitational-wave sources in the sky, providing deeper insights into black hole mergers and the fundamental nature of the universe.