What are atomic clocks and how do they work?

Atomic clocks are highly precise timekeeping devices that combine a quartz crystal oscillator with an ensemble of atoms to achieve exceptional stability. The oscillator's frequency is adjusted using atomic transitions, ensuring extremely accurate time measurement. They are used in GPS satellites and advanced space missions such as NASA’s Deep Space Atomic Clock, which uses mercury ions for enhanced stability.

What is Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and why is it important?

Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) refers to orbital altitudes between 100 km and approximately 450 km above Earth. Satellites in VLEO offer superior imaging resolution and lower latency, making them suitable for advanced communication technologies like 6G. This orbit is relatively safe from space debris because objects naturally decay due to atmospheric drag, though satellites require frequent orbit maintenance.

What is India’s Deep Ocean Mission and its objectives?

The Deep Ocean Mission, launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to explore and sustainably utilize deep-sea resources while strengthening India's Blue Economy. It includes the development of India’s first manned submersible vehicle, MATSYA 6000, under the Samudrayaan Project. The mission aligns with the United Nations’ Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

What is the OSIRIS-REx mission and what did it achieve?

OSIRIS-REx is NASA’s first mission to collect and return samples from an asteroid. The spacecraft successfully delivered samples from asteroid Bennu to Earth on September 24, 2023. After completing its primary mission, it was renamed OSIRIS-APEX and is now on a new mission to study asteroid Apophis in 2029.

What is HbA1c and why is it important in diabetes management?

HbA1c is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is widely used to diagnose diabetes and monitor long-term glucose control in individuals with diabetes. An HbA1c level below 5.7% is considered normal, 5.7%–6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher confirms diabetes. Maintaining HbA1c below 7% is generally recommended to reduce the risk of complications.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - Science & Tech. - 25th March 2026

Jigyashu Mishra
6 days ago
1 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s Science & Technology (Every wednesday) Quiz — covering Atomic clocks, Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), Deep Ocean Mission, OSIRIS-REx mission, HbA1c and more.

Previous UPSC Science & Technology Quiz

Monthly Current Affairs Pointer Nov-Dec 2025

₹44.00₹22.00

Buy Now

18 March 2026	Click Here
11 March 2026	Click Here
04 March 2026	Click Here
25 Feb 2026	Click Here
18 Feb 2026	Click Here
11 Feb 2026	Click Here
04 Feb 2026	Click Here

Daily Current Affairs Summary

The PRESS Pad

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - Science & Tech. - 25th March 2026

Previous UPSC Science & Technology Quiz

Recent Posts

Comments