NASA Peregrine lander face failure (GS Paper 3, Science and Technology)
Why in news?
- The Peregrine lunar lander, launched from the United States, encountered critical propulsion issues moments after it separated from the Vulcan rocket to begin its journey to the Moon.
- The spacecraft, which was to land on the Moon on February 23, has now become a flyby mission with less than 40 hours of life remaining.
Details:
- The Peregrine lander, which represents a new era of lunar exploration involving private sector technology, experienced difficulties achieving the correct orientation for solar power due to the propulsion problem.
- This technical hiccup occurred despite the successful launch aboard United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket.
Payloads:
- The mission carries five scientific investigations from NASA, all aimed at advancing understanding of the Moon's surface and preparing for future human and robotic exploration.
- Although the immediate future of these payloads is uncertain due to the current issue, NASA has plans to send copies of four of these instruments on subsequent missions.
- These include the Laser Retroreflector Array, Near-Infrared Volatile Spectrometer System, Neutron Spectrometer System, and Linear Energy Transfer Spectrometer. The fifth instrument, the Peregrine Ion-Trap Mass Spectrometer, does not have a scheduled re-flight at this time.
What’s next?
- As the investigation into the propulsion issue continues, both NASA and Astrobotic are working diligently to review flight data to pinpoint the root cause and devise a strategy to move forward.
In a first, India set to chair, host UNESCO World Heritage Committee
(GS Paper 3, Environment)
Why in news?
- In a historic development, India is set to chair and host United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)'s World Heritage Committee from July 21 to 31, 2024 in New Delhi.
- The opportunity will mark a momentous occasion for India's cultural and historical legacy. This is the first time a country will lead and host the committee.
About UNESCO:
- UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN) that aims to promote world peace and national security through international cooperation in education, arts, science and culture.
- It is also a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG), a coalition of UN agencies and organizations aimed at fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- UNESCO’s Headquarters are located in Paris and the Organization has more than 50 field offices around the world.
- It has 193 Members and 11 Associate Members and is governed by the General Conference and the Executive Board.
About UNESCO's World Heritage Committee:
- The UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, which meets once a year and consists of representatives from 21 member states, plays an important role in bringing new additions to the prestigious list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
