Daily Current Affairs : 13-January-2024

NASA, the pioneer in space exploration, has extended an extraordinary invitation to the public: to inscribe their names on the Moon’s surface through the Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER). This initiative marks a significant leap in lunar exploration, bringing us closer to unraveling the mysteries hidden in the Moon’s South Pole.

The VIPER Rover: A Pioneering Robotic Mission:

NASA’s Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, aptly named VIPER, represents a groundbreaking robotic mission dedicated to exploring the lunar landscape. This mission holds great relevance to Science and Technology, falling under the purview of GS III.

Key Objectives of VIPER:
  1. Proximity to Moon’s South Pole:
    • VIPER’s primary focus is the Moon’s South Pole, a region known for its potential abundance of ice and other resources.
    • By closely examining this area, VIPER aims to provide detailed insights into the composition of lunar resources.
  2. Surface and Subsurface Analysis:
    • The rover is equipped to directly analyze surface and subsurface lunar ice at various depths and temperatures.
    • This capability allows VIPER to study distinct soil environments, unraveling the complexities of lunar composition.
  3. Resource Mapping:
    • VIPER’s transmitted data will be pivotal in creating comprehensive resource maps.
    • Scientists will use these maps to determine the location, concentration, and forms of lunar ice, whether in crystal structures or chemically bound molecules.
  4. Terrain Navigation:
    • Navigating the challenging lunar South Pole terrain, VIPER collects crucial data contributing to our understanding of the Moon’s history and environment.
    • This capability aids in deciphering the geological and environmental factors influencing the lunar landscape.
Mission Details:

VIPER’s mission spans 100 Earth days, covering three lunar day-and-night cycles. The anticipated landing at the Moon’s South Pole is scheduled for late 2024, promising an exciting phase in lunar exploration.

Important Points:
  • VIPER Rover Mission Overview:
    • NASA’s groundbreaking robotic mission named Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER).
    • Public invited to send their names to the Moon’s surface through VIPER.
  • Key Objectives:
    • Proximity to Moon’s South Pole:
      • VIPER focuses on exploring the Moon’s South Pole, known for potential ice and resources.
      • Aims to provide detailed insights into the composition of lunar resources.
    • Surface and Subsurface Analysis:
      • VIPER directly analyzes lunar ice at various depths and temperatures.
      • Studies distinct soil environments, unraveling lunar composition complexities.
    • Resource Mapping:
      • Data transmitted by VIPER used to create comprehensive resource maps.
      • Helps scientists determine location, concentration, and forms of lunar ice.
    • Terrain Navigation:
      • VIPER navigates challenging lunar South Pole terrain.
      • Gathers crucial data contributing to understanding the Moon’s history and environment.
  • Mission Details:
    • Duration: 100 Earth days, covering three lunar day-and-night cycles.
    • Scheduled landing at the Moon’s South Pole in late 2024.
  • Significance:
    • Symbolizes a historic opportunity for public participation in space exploration.
    • Promises to uncover the secrets of the Moon’s South Pole, providing invaluable insights into lunar resources.
    • Contributes to a broader understanding of the Moon’s geological and environmental factors.
Why In News

NASA has extended a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to etch their names on a digital microchip, destined for the lunar surface aboard the agency’s pioneering robotic lunar rover VIPER – short for Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, further connecting the global community to the exploration of our celestial neighbor.

MCQs about VIPER Rover Mission

  1. What is the primary focus of NASA’s VIPER Rover mission?
    A. Exploration of Mars
    B. Probing the Moon’s South Pole
    C. Investigating Jupiter’s Atmosphere
    D. Studying Asteroid Belts
    Correct Answer: B. Probing the Moon’s South Pole
    Explanation: The VIPER Rover is specifically designed to closely examine the lunar South Pole, known for its potential abundance of ice and other resources.
  2. What is the main objective of VIPER’s surface and subsurface analysis?
    A. Studying Martian Geology
    B. Analyzing Lunar Ice at Various Depths
    C. Investigating Saturn’s Rings
    D. Mapping Asteroid Compositions
    Correct Answer: B. Analyzing Lunar Ice at Various Depths
    Explanation: VIPER is equipped to directly analyze surface and subsurface lunar ice, providing insights into the composition of lunar resources.
  3. What crucial role does VIPER play in lunar exploration?
    A. Studying the Moon’s Equator
    B. Navigating Mars’ Terrain
    C. Navigating the Moon’s South Pole Terrain
    D. Observing Jupiter’s Moons
    Correct Answer: C. Navigating the Moon’s South Pole Terrain
    Explanation: VIPER is designed to navigate the challenging lunar South Pole terrain, gathering crucial data contributing to the understanding of the Moon’s history and environment.
  4. When is VIPER scheduled to land at the Moon’s South Pole?
    A. Early 2022
    B. Late 2023
    C. Late 2024
    D. Early 2025
    Correct Answer: C. Late 2024
    Explanation: VIPER is anticipated to land at the Moon’s South Pole in late 2024, marking a significant phase in lunar exploration covering three lunar day-and-night cycles.

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