Daily Current Affairs : 9-February-2024
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has accomplished an exquisite milestone by developing India’s first hypervelocity expansion tunnel test facility. This development positions India among a select group of countries with state-of-the-art hypersonic testing capabilities. The facility, referred to as S2 or “Jigarthanda,” represents a significant jump in aerospace technology and research.
What is Hypersonic?
Hypersonic refers to speeds that are five times or greater than the speed of sound. This means:
- Mach 5 and Above: Hypersonic speeds start at Mach 5.
- Speed Measurement: Typical hypersonic aircraft can travel quicker than 3,000 miles per hour (mph).
This level of speed presents unique challenges and opportunities in aerospace engineering.
The S2 Facility
Located in IIT Kanpur’s Hypersonic Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory (HEAL), the S2 facility has the capability to simulate hypersonic conditions. The key features include:
- Speed Range: It can simulate flight speeds from 3 to 10 kilometers per second.
- Advanced Testing: This allows researchers to conduct detailed experiments on various materials and designs under extreme conditions.
Objectives of the Facility
The primary goals of the S2 facility are to:
- Inspire Aerospace Enthusiasts: The facility aims to ignite interest in aerospace engineering among students and professionals.
- Foster Innovation: By providing advanced testing capabilities, it encourages new ideas and technologies in the field.
- Strengthen Defence and Space Sectors: The facility enhances India’s capabilities in space exploration and defense systems.
Important Points:
Milestone Achievement: IIT Kanpur has developed India’s first hypervelocity expansion tunnel test facility, known as S2 or “Jigarthanda.”
Hypersonic Definition: Hypersonic speeds are defined as five times or more than the speed of sound (Mach 5 and above).
Speed Measurement: Typical hypersonic aircraft travel faster than 3,000 miles per hour (mph).
Facility Location: The S2 facility is situated in IIT Kanpur’s Hypersonic Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory (HEAL).
Simulation Capabilities: The facility can simulate flight speeds ranging from 3 to 10 kilometers per second.
Advanced Testing: Researchers can conduct detailed experiments on various materials and designs under extreme hypersonic conditions.
Primary Goals:
- Inspire Aerospace Enthusiasts: Aims to ignite interest in aerospace engineering among students and professionals.
- Foster Innovation: Encourages new ideas and technologies in aerospace.
- Strengthen Defence and Space Sectors: Enhances India’s capabilities in space exploration and defense systems.
Significance: The S2 facility represents a major advancement in India’s aerospace technology and research capabilities.
Why In News
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has developed and successfully tested India’s first hypervelocity expansion tunnel test facility, making the country one of the few nations with this advanced hypersonic testing capability. This groundbreaking achievement not only showcases India’s growing expertise in aerospace technology but also positions it as a key player in the global aerospace research landscape.
MCQs about India’s Breakthrough in Hypersonic Testing
-
What is the name of India’s first hypervelocity expansion tunnel test facility developed by IIT Kanpur?
A. Hypervelocity Lab
B. S2 or “Jigarthanda”
C. Aerodynamics Research Center
D. Supersonic Test Facility
-
What is one of the primary goals of the S2 facility?
A. To develop commercial airlines
B. To inspire aerospace enthusiasts
C. To manufacture rockets
D. To conduct underwater research
-
How fast can the S2 facility simulate flight speeds?
A. 1 to 5 km/s
B. 3 to 10 km/s
C. 5 to 15 km/s
D. 10 to 20 km/s
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
