Explainer

Solar flares impact Earth, satellites, and astronauts. X-class flares are the strongest, potentially causing geomagnetic storms. A recent X2.8 flare, the strongest since 2017, affected shortwave radio. Solar radiation storms from flares pose risks to astronauts and satellites

The United States is set to announce the deployment of a "special upgraded multinational task force" in the Red Sea to deter Houthi attacks on ships. While not escorting vessels, the task force's existence aims to enhance the ability to counter threats. Girish Linganna reports

Coloured gas canisters, initially designed for military applications, have found diverse uses in civilian settings. From enhancing visual effects in photography to energizing fan engagement in sports, these devices have become integral elements of various activities.

As Bangladesh approaches its 2024 election, the country is embroiled in protests, violence, and political turmoil. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's bid for a fourth term faces intense opposition from parties like the BNP and the Jamaat-e-Islami, leading to widespread discontent and escalating tensions. Girish Langanna reports

India's ISRO is set to launch its inaugural Venus mission, Shukrayaan-1, aiming to explore the planet's sub-surface characteristics. Venus, once Earth-like, underwent a fiery transformation, experiencing a runaway greenhouse effect. Scorching temperatures and high pressures, make planetary exploration challenging, says Girish Linganna

ISRO has achieved a significant milestone in its Aditya L-1 mission, dedicated to studying the Sun's secrets and its impact on space weather dynamics. The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) on Aditya L-1 successfully operated its shutter, capturing the Sun's complete disk in the 200-400 nm wavelength range. Girish Linganna explains

In the lead-up to the 2024 elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) holds a significant advantage, driven by Prime Minister Modi's enduring popularity, a robust political organization, and effective marketing strategies, as noted by Milan Vaishnav, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

As JetZero and other industry players work towards bringing the first blended wing aircraft to reality, the skies of 2030 may witness a transformative shift towards a greener and more sustainable era in aviation.

The Supreme Court'sunanimous decision upholding the Centre's move to abrogate provisions of Article 370 and directing the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmirhas a complex history that can be traced back to the early years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political career.

DRDO introduces a 70-ton canisterized missile system, prompting speculation about its compatibility with Agni-V Mk-2 or the anticipated Agni-VI Inter Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM). The Agni-V Mk-2's modified design suggests the launcher may be intended for a missile weighing over 60-65 tonnes