Science & Technology Current Affairs - 2026-10-10

Background: ISRO is developing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) to replace the LVM3, aiming for higher payload capacity and cost-effectiveness. Current Context: On October 9, 2026, ISRO successfully conducted the hot test of its 2000kN semi-cryogenic engine at the Mahendragiri facility. This engine uses a refined kerosene-liquid oxygen propellant combination. Impact: This milestone is critical for India's future heavy-lift missions and the development of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station. It significantly enhances India's capability to launch heavier satellites into geostationary transfer orbits with greater efficiency and reduced operational costs.

Background: LIGO-India is a planned advanced gravitational-wave observatory to be located in Maharashtra, part of a global network. Current Context: As of October 2026, the construction of the vacuum infrastructure and the installation of laser interferometry components have reached a critical phase. International collaboration with US-based LIGO laboratories continues to provide technical expertise for the project. Impact: Once operational, LIGO-India will significantly improve the localization of gravitational-wave sources in the sky. This will enable deeper insights into black hole mergers, neutron star collisions, and the fundamental nature of gravity in the universe.