Q80. Which Indian solar mission began regular science observations using the SUIT instrument and released initial data sets in early 2025?
[SSC GD Constable, 04 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. AstroSat-2
B. Aditya-L1
C. Chandrayaan-3
D. XPoSat
Answer: B. Aditya-L1
Explanation: Aditya-L1 carries the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT), which observes the solar photosphere and chromosphere in near-ultraviolet wavelengths. From a halo orbit around Sun–Earth L1, the observatory can watch the Sun continuously and support studies of solar activity.
Q79. What was significant about the Chandrayaan-2 mission despite the unsuccessful landing of its lander?
[SSC GD Constable, 04 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. It studied Venus
B. Its orbiter continued transmitting scientific data
C. It carried astronauts
D. It was India’s first Mars mission
Answer: B. Its orbiter continued transmitting scientific data
Explanation: Chandrayaan-2, launched in July 2019, carried an orbiter, Vikram lander and Pragyan rover. Although Vikram did not achieve a soft landing, its orbiter functioned independently and continued making valuable observations of the lunar surface and exosphere.
Q78. Which mission made India the first country to reach Mars orbit successfully on its maiden attempt?
[SSC GD Constable, 06 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. Chandrayaan-1
B. Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission)
C. Chandrayaan-2
D. Aditya-L1
Answer: B. Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission)
Explanation: India’s Mars Orbiter Mission, nicknamed Mangalyaan, launched on PSLV-C25 on 5 November 2013 and entered Martian orbit on 24 September 2014. It demonstrated interplanetary navigation, autonomous spacecraft management and cost-effective mission design on the first attempt.
Q77. Which Indian satellite helped monitor cyclones including Phailin and Hudhud?
[SSC GD Constable, 05 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. INSAT-3D
B. Cartosat-1
C. GSAT-7
D. RISAT-2
Answer: A. INSAT-3D
Explanation: INSAT-3D is an Indian meteorological satellite carrying an imager and an atmospheric sounder. Its frequent cloud images and temperature–humidity measurements helped forecasters track major Bay of Bengal cyclones, supporting warnings and disaster preparedness.
Q76. If a satellite takes about 90 minutes to complete an orbit, which force principally keeps it moving around Earth?
[SSC GD Constable, 05 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. Earth’s gravitational force
B. Its centrifugal force
C. Earth’s magnetic force
D. Electromagnetic radiation
Answer: A. Earth’s gravitational force
Explanation: Earth’s gravity provides the centripetal acceleration required for an orbiting satellite to keep changing direction. Without gravity it would travel approximately along a straight tangent. A 90-minute orbital period is typical of low Earth orbit.
Q75. Which discoveries have been made using AstroSat:
I. ultraviolet emission from distant galaxies;
II. X-ray polarisation associated with celestial remnants?
[SSC GD Constable, 18 May 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. I only
B. II only
C. Both I and II
D. Neither I nor II
Answer: C. Both I and II
Explanation: AstroSat, launched in 2015, is India’s first dedicated multiwavelength space observatory. Its ultraviolet and X-ray instruments investigate distant galaxies and high-energy astronomical sources. The mission substantially expanded India’s observational astronomy capabilities beyond Earth-orbiting application satellites.
Q74. Which is India’s first space-based mission dedicated to studying the Sun?
[UPSSSC Lekhpal Mains, 21 May 2026]
A. Aditya-L1
B. NavIC
C. HysIS
D. GAGAN
E. None of the above
Answer: A. Aditya-L1
Explanation: Aditya-L1 launched on PSLV-C57 on 2 September 2023. It operates around the Sun–Earth L1 point, roughly 1.5 million kilometres from Earth, with instruments examining the solar corona, photosphere, chromosphere, plasma and magnetic fields.
Q73. Which Indian scientist received the Vikram Sarabhai Medal in 2024?
[RRB Group D, 03 February 2026 (Shift 1)]
A. Anil Bhardwaj
B. Govindarajan Padmanabhan
C. Umesh Varshney
D. Prahlad Chandra Agrawal
Answer: A. Anil Bhardwaj
Explanation: Planetary scientist Anil Bhardwaj received the COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal in 2024 for important contributions to space science. The honour recognises outstanding research by scientists from developing countries and commemorates India’s pioneering space-programme leader.
Q72. Which Indian space mission renewed scientific interest in the presence of water on the Moon?
[SSC MTS 2025 paper, held 18 February 2026 (Shift 3)]
A. Chandrayaan-1
B. Chandrayaan-2
C. Chandrayaan-3
D. Aditya-L1
Answer: A. Chandrayaan-1
Explanation: Chandrayaan-1 was launched in October 2008. NASA’s Moon Mineralogy Mapper aboard the Indian spacecraft detected spectral signatures of water and hydroxyl on the lunar surface, transforming scientific understanding of the Moon’s composition and potential volatile resources.
Q71. India observes National Space Day on 23 August to commemorate which event?
[SSC MTS 2025 paper, held 11 February 2026 (Shift 3)]
A. The successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander
B. The founding of ISRO
C. The launch of Aryabhata
D. The launch of Mangalyaan
Answer: A. The successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander
Explanation: On 23 August 2023, the Vikram lander of Chandrayaan-3 successfully touched down in the lunar south polar region. The Government of India designated 23 August as National Space Day to recognise this milestone and encourage space-science awareness.
Q70. “Shiv Shakti Point” is associated with which celestial body?
[SSC MTS 2025 paper, held 10 February 2026 (Shift 3)]
A. Moon
B. Mars
C. Venus
D. Jupiter
Answer: A. Moon
Explanation: Shiv Shakti Point is the designated name for the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander’s touchdown site on the Moon. The name was announced after the successful August 2023 landing and commemorates the achievement of Indian lunar exploration.
Q69. Which ISRO programme was announced as the agency’s central focus for the year 2025?
[DSSSB Assistant Superintendent, 05 July 2026 (Shift 2)]
A. Aditya solar observations
B. Gaganyaan human spaceflight
C. Chandrayaan lunar exploration
D. Mars Orbiter Mission expansion
Answer: B. Gaganyaan human spaceflight
Explanation: Gaganyaan is India’s indigenous human-spaceflight programme. Its core goals include human-rating the launch vehicle, crew escape, life-support systems, crew-module recovery and eventually sending Indian astronauts to low Earth orbit and returning them safely.
Q68. For GAGAN, assess
I. improved accuracy and integrity;
II. higher-quality air-traffic management;
III. benefits only aviation.
Which are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2025, GS Paper I]
A. I, II and III
B. II and III only
C. I only
D. I and II only
Answer: D. I and II only
Explanation: GAGAN is an Indian satellite-based augmentation system developed by ISRO and the Airports Authority of India. It improves navigation accuracy and integrity for aviation, while its enhanced positioning information also has potential uses outside aviation.
Q67. How many of the following space missions encourage or support microgravity research:
I. Axiom-4,
II. SpaDeX,
III. Gaganyaan?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2025, GS Paper I]
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Answer: C. All three
Explanation: Axiom-4 involves experiments aboard the International Space Station; the SpaDeX mission included the POEM experimental platform; and Gaganyaan develops Indian human-spaceflight capabilities. All three have connections to investigations or research opportunities in microgravity conditions.
Q66. Who succeeded S. Somanath as ISRO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Space, in January 2025?
[SSC CGL, 14 September 2025 (Shift 2)]
A. K. Radhakrishnan
B. K. Sivan
C. V. Narayanan
D. S. Sashidhar Sinha
Answer: C. V. Narayanan
Explanation: V. Narayanan assumed charge as ISRO Chairman in January 2025. A propulsion specialist, he worked extensively on liquid and cryogenic rocket propulsion, including important systems for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle programme.
Q65. National Space Day is celebrated in India on which date?
[MPPSC State Service Prelims, 16 February 2025 (GS Paper I)]
A. 23 May
B. 23 September
C. 23 August
D. 23 November
Answer: C. 23 August
Explanation: India observes National Space Day on 23 August, commemorating Chandrayaan-3’s successful Vikram lander touchdown on 23 August 2023. The first annual observance took place in 2024 to celebrate India’s progress in lunar exploration and encourage public engagement with science.
Q64. Which of the following launch vehicles was used for the Chandrayaan-2 mission?
[SSC CHSL 2025 Tier I, 26 November 2025 (Shift 1)]
A. SLV-3
B. ASLV
C. GSLV
D. PSLV
Answer: C. GSLV
Explanation: Chandrayaan-2 launched on 22 July 2019 aboard GSLV Mk III-M1, now known in the LVM3 family. This powerful three-stage launch vehicle carried the orbiter, Vikram lander and Pragyan rover towards a lunar transfer trajectory.
Q63. India began its space research programme by launching a meteorological sounding rocket in which year?
[SSC CHSL 2025 Tier I, 20 November 2025 (Shift 3)]
A. 1952
B. 1957
C. 1963
D. 1984
Answer: C. 1963
Explanation: India’s first sounding-rocket launch took place at Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station on 21 November 1963. The NASA-supplied Nike-Apache rocket marked the beginning of organised rocket-based upper-atmospheric research in India, under the vision of Vikram Sarabhai.
Q62. What was a principal technology-demonstration objective of Chandrayaan-3?
[SSC Stenographer, 06 August 2025 (Shift 2)]
A. Safe lunar landing and rover operations
B. Studying Mars’s atmosphere
C. Detecting gravitational waves
D. Only orbiting the Moon
Answer: A. Safe lunar landing and rover operations
Explanation: Chandrayaan-3 aimed to demonstrate soft landing and rover mobility on the Moon, along with in-situ experiments. Following its August 2023 touchdown, Vikram and Pragyan collected lunar-surface data in the south polar region.
Q61. What distinguishes ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) from PSLV and GSLV?
[SSC CGL, 24 September 2025 (Shift 3)]
A. It uses only a hybrid engine
B. It is intended for low-cost, on-demand small-satellite launches
C. It launches exclusively from the sea
D. It carries only foreign satellites
Answer: B. It is intended for low-cost, on-demand small-satellite launches
Explanation: SSLV was designed to serve the growing market for relatively small payloads with quick turnaround and fewer support requirements. Its launch-on-demand concept differs from the heavier, more complex PSLV and GSLV launch systems.
Q60. Which organisation developed the Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 microprocessors for Indian space missions?
[SSC CHSL 2025 Tier I, 26 November 2025 (Shift 3)]
A. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
B. DRDO
C. ISRO
D. Bharat Electronics Limited
Answer: C. ISRO
Explanation: ISRO developed the Vikram and Kalpana series of space-use processors to strengthen India’s indigenous spacecraft electronics. Radiation-tolerant onboard computing supports guidance, telemetry, real-time processing and reliable operation in the challenging launch and space environments.
Q59. What is a principal scientific objective of the proposed Shukrayaan-1 mission?
[SSC CGL, 26 September 2025 (Shift 1)]
A. Studying Venus’s surface and atmosphere
B. Observing near-Earth asteroids only
C. Exploring Saturn’s rings
D. Studying the atmosphere of Mars
Answer: A. Studying Venus’s surface and atmosphere
Explanation: Shukrayaan refers to India’s planned Venus exploration effort. Studying the planet’s atmosphere, surface and interaction with the solar wind could illuminate extreme greenhouse conditions and the evolution of rocky planets.
Q58. Which technology helped the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander identify hazardous terrain and avoid it during descent?
[SSC CGL, 26 September 2025 (Shift 2)]
A. Lander Hazard Detection and Avoidance Camera and Processing Algorithm
B. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
C. Laser Doppler Imaging and AI-assisted navigation
D. Laser Doppler Velocimeter
Answer: A. Lander Hazard Detection and Avoidance Camera and Processing Algorithm
Explanation: Chandrayaan-3 used a Lander Hazard Detection and Avoidance Camera with dedicated onboard image processing to assess the landing area. This autonomous hazard-detection capability helped choose a safer touchdown region, complementing navigation, attitude-control and altitude-measurement systems.
Q57. Assertion: PSLV is considered ISRO’s workhorse.
Reason: It launches many payload types into different orbits with a strong service record.
Choose the correct statement.
[SSC CGL, 12 September 2025 (Shift 3)]
A. Both true and Reason correctly explains Assertion
B. Both true but Reason does not explain Assertion
C. Assertion true but Reason false
D. Assertion false but Reason true
Answer: A. Both true and Reason correctly explains Assertion
Explanation: PSLV earned the description workhorse because of its extensive operational record and flexible mission profiles. It has placed remote-sensing, navigation and smaller scientific payloads into multiple orbital configurations, carrying both Indian and international spacecraft.
Q56. What is the name of ISRO’s reusable launch-vehicle technology demonstrator?
[SSC Selection Post (Matriculation), 25 July 2025 (Shift 1)]
A. PSLV-R
B. GSLV-X
C. RLV-TD
D. MLV-1
Answer: C. RLV-TD
Explanation: RLV-TD stands for Reusable Launch Vehicle–Technology Demonstrator. ISRO developed it to test technologies such as autonomous navigation, re-entry and landing that could eventually reduce the cost of access to space.
Q55. What key capability is being tested for India’s proposed Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)?
[SSC Stenographer, 08 August 2025 (Shift 1)]
A. Reusable booster with semi-cryogenic propulsion
B. Quantum-entanglement control
C. Ramjet-only orbital ascent
D. Orbital drop pods
Answer: A. Reusable booster with semi-cryogenic propulsion
Explanation: The NGLV concept combines substantially greater lift capability with reusability and advanced propulsion. Semi-cryogenic engine development is a central technology route for more economical, heavy-payload access to space.
Q54. Which ISRO launch mission placed 104 satellites into orbit in a single flight?
[SSC Stenographer, 06 August 2025 (Shift 1)]
A. AstroSat
B. GSLV Mk III
C. Chandrayaan-2
D. PSLV-C37
Answer: D. PSLV-C37
Explanation: PSLV-C37 launched 104 satellites on 15 February 2017, including the Cartosat-2 series primary satellite and numerous nanosatellites. The mission became an important demonstration of India’s satellite-deployment and multiple-payload capabilities.
Q53. Match:
A. Chandrayaan-3,
B. Aditya-L1,
C. INSAT-3DS,
D. RLV-LEX-01
with dates
1. 2-Sep-2023,
2. 17-Feb-2024,
3. 14-Jul-2023,
4. 2-Apr-2023.
[UPPSC PCS Prelims 2025, GS-I]
A. A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2
B. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
C. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
D. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
Answer: B. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
Explanation: Chandrayaan-3 launched in July 2023; Aditya-L1 in September 2023; the meteorological INSAT-3DS in February 2024; and the RLV autonomous landing experiment took place in April 2023. The matching sequence is therefore 3–1–2–4.
Q52. Who founded the Indian Space Research Organisation and is widely called the father of the Indian space programme?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 02 December 2024 (Shift 1)]
A. Vikram Sarabhai
B. Satish Dhawan
C. Homi J. Bhabha
D. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Answer: A. Vikram Sarabhai
Explanation: Vikram Sarabhai helped establish INCOSPAR in 1962 and guided the formation of ISRO in 1969. He envisioned using space technology for national development in communications, education, meteorology and natural-resource management.
Q51. Which type of launch vehicle put India’s Aditya-L1 solar mission into space?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 03 December 2024 (Shift 3)]
A. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle
B. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle–XL
C. Satellite Launch Vehicle-3
D. GSLV Mk III
Answer: B. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle–XL
Explanation: Aditya-L1 was launched on 2 September 2023 using PSLV-C57 in its XL configuration. The launcher placed the spacecraft on its initial path, after which manoeuvres brought it toward the Sun–Earth L1 region.
Q50. Which ISRO team received the Vigyan Team Award in 2024?
[RRB Technician Grade III, 29 December 2024 (Shift 1)]
A. Chandrayaan-2 Team
B. XPoSat Team
C. Aditya-L1 Team
D. Chandrayaan-3 Team
Answer: D. Chandrayaan-3 Team
Explanation: The Chandrayaan-3 team was honoured for India’s historic successful lunar soft landing and rover operations. The award recognised collaborative work across spacecraft systems, propulsion, navigation, operations and scientific instruments.
Q49. Arrange the following ISRO rockets by increasing payload capacity:
I. SLV-3,
II. GSLV,
III. PSLV-XL,
IV. ASLV.
[TSPSC Group 1 Prelims, 09 June 2024]
A. I, IV, III, II
B. I, III, IV, II
C. I, II, III, IV
D. I, III, II, IV
Answer: A. I, IV, III, II
Explanation: SLV-3 was an early light launcher, and ASLV improved upon it. The much larger PSLV supported operational polar-orbit launches, while GSLV was developed to carry heavier payloads, especially towards geosynchronous transfer orbit.
Q48. Who received the International Astronautical Federation World Space Award in October 2024 for Chandrayaan-3?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 02 December 2024 (Shift 3)]
A. S. Somanath
B. P. Veeramuthuvel
C. K. Sivan
D. L. Murugan
Answer: A. S. Somanath
Explanation: S. Somanath, then ISRO Chairman, accepted the World Space Award associated with the Chandrayaan-3 achievement at the International Astronautical Congress. The International Astronautical Federation promotes global collaboration across the space community.
Q47. Consider XPoSat:
1. It is India’s first dedicated X-ray polarimetry mission examining bright astronomical sources;
2. It carries two scientific payloads in low Earth orbit.
Which statements are correct?
[CGPSC State Service Prelims, 11 February 2024 (GS Paper I)]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: XPoSat is India’s first dedicated X-ray polarimetry satellite. Its two scientific instruments, POLIX and XSPECT, observe polarisation and spectral properties of energetic astronomical sources such as black holes and neutron stars from a low Earth orbit.
Q46. Two claims are made about Chandrayaan-3: it was the first successful landing near the lunar south pole; India became the fourth country to soft-land on the Moon. Which claims are incorrect?
[IB ACIO Grade II, 18 January 2024 (Shift 2)]
A. Neither 1 nor 2
B. Both 1 and 2
C. 2 only
D. 1 only
Answer: A. Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: Both statements are correct. Chandrayaan-3 landed on 23 August 2023, making India the fourth country to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon and the first to land in its south polar region.
Q45. Which Indian mission won the 2024 John L. “Jack” Swigert Jr. Award for Space Exploration?
[UP Police Constable Re-exam, 25 August 2024 (Shift 2)]
A. Chandrayaan-3
B. Mars Orbiter Mission
C. Gaganyaan
D. Chandrayaan-2
Answer: A. Chandrayaan-3
Explanation: The Space Foundation recognised Chandrayaan-3 for its lunar exploration milestone. The award honours exceptional space-exploration achievements and commemorates Apollo 13 astronaut Jack Swigert, celebrating technological achievement and mission teamwork.
Q44. Which was India’s first artificial satellite?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 02 December 2024 (Shift 2)]
A. Bhaskara
B. ScatSat
C. Resourcesat
D. Aryabhata
Answer: D. Aryabhata
Explanation: Aryabhata was India’s first indigenously built satellite. It was launched on 19 April 1975 aboard a Soviet launch vehicle, marking an early milestone in Indian spacecraft design and scientific experimentation.
Q43. Under the 2024 space-sector FDI reform, which activity was allowed 100% foreign investment through the automatic route?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 02 December 2024 (Shift 1)]
A. Manufacturing components and subsystems for satellites
B. Complete satellite manufacturing
C. Satellite products and operation
D. Launch vehicles and systems
Answer: A. Manufacturing components and subsystems for satellites
Explanation: The policy permits up to 100% automatic-route FDI in manufacturing satellite components and subsystems. Different approval thresholds apply to satellite manufacturing and operation and to launch-vehicle activities, encouraging investment while distinguishing strategic sectors.
Q42. What is the principal goal of the NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission?
[RRB Technician Grade III, 29 December 2024 (Shift 2)]
A. Monitoring Earth for climate and environmental change
B. Developing defence satellites
C. Space tourism
D. Monitoring international trade
Answer: A. Monitoring Earth for climate and environmental change
Explanation: NISAR combines NASA and ISRO radar technology to observe changes in the Earth’s land, ice and ecosystems. Repeated measurements support research on environmental change, land deformation, natural hazards and resource management.
Q41. Which private Indian organisation established the launchpad used for Agnibaan–SorTeD at Sriharikota?
[RPF SI CBT-I, 13 December 2024 (Shift 3)]
A. Agnikul
B. Dhanush
C. Agnisthal
D. Dhara
Answer: A. Agnikul
Explanation: Agnikul Cosmos established a private launchpad and mission-control facility at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. Its Agnibaan–SorTeD technology demonstration in May 2024 marked progress in India’s private launch ecosystem.
Q40. What is the name of the ISRO sounding rocket used for atmospheric studies?
[WBCS Mains (Science) 2023]
A. Car-to-Sat
B. Agni-IV
C. RH-300
D. BrahMos-II
Answer: C. RH-300
Explanation: RH-300 belongs to the Rohini family of sounding rockets. Such rockets perform short suborbital flights to gather upper-atmosphere and scientific measurements, supporting studies of temperature, winds, pressure and other environmental properties.
Q39. Which of these countries has its own satellite navigation system?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2023, GS Paper I]
A. Australia
B. Canada
C. Israel
D. Japan
Answer: D. Japan
Explanation: Japan operates the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), a regional satellite navigation system that complements GPS. Its constellation enhances navigation availability and performance especially around Japan and neighbouring Asia-Pacific areas.
Q38. Consider:
Cepheids—clouds of gas and dust;
Nebulae—periodically varying stars;
Pulsars—rotating neutron stars formed after massive-star collapse.
How many pairs are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2023, GS Paper I]
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Answer: A. Only one
Explanation: Cepheids are pulsating variable stars, while nebulae are clouds of gas and dust. Pulsars are rapidly rotating neutron stars emitting beams of radiation. Therefore, only the third pairing is correctly matched.
Q37. Which of the following was India’s first privately developed rocket to be launched?
[UPSC NDA (I) 2023, General Ability Test, 16 April 2023]
A. Skyroot
B. Prarambh
C. Bazoomq
D. Vikram-S
Answer: D. Vikram-S
Explanation: The Vikram-S suborbital rocket was developed by the private company Skyroot Aerospace and launched from Sriharikota in November 2022. Its inaugural mission, called Prarambh, helped demonstrate a growing role for private firms within India’s space ecosystem.
Q36. ISRO’s tested HS200 human-rated solid rocket booster is a component of which mission?
[KSP Sub-Inspector, 29 January 2023]
A. Gaganyaan
B. Aditya-L1
C. Chandrayaan-3
D. Aditya-L2
Answer: A. Gaganyaan
Explanation: The HS200 solid booster is part of the human-rated launch-vehicle development for Gaganyaan. Human-rating includes stricter reliability, safety and performance requirements to enable transporting astronauts into low Earth orbit.
Q35. What was the final ISRO PSLV mission launched during the calendar year 2022?
[CGPSC State Service Prelims 2023, General Studies]
A. PSLV-C54
B. PSLV-C53
C. PSLV-C52
D. PSLV-C51
Answer: A. PSLV-C54
Explanation: PSLV-C54 was launched on 26 November 2022, carrying Earth-observation satellite EOS-06, also known as Oceansat-3, along with co-passenger satellites. It was ISRO’s final Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle mission of that calendar year.
Q34. Which was the first satellite designed and built by India?
[CG Vyapam Assistant Teacher, 10 June 2023]
A. Rohini RS-1
B. Aryabhata
C. Chandrayaan-1
D. SpaDeX
Answer: B. Aryabhata
Explanation: Aryabhata, named after the Indian mathematician and astronomer, was launched on 19 April 1975. India designed and fabricated the spacecraft, while the Soviet Union provided the launch vehicle, marking the start of India’s satellite era.
Q33. What is the name of India’s proposed first human spaceflight mission, which was scheduled for 2023 when the question was asked?
[UPSC CDS (I), 10 April 2022, General Knowledge]
A. Vayumitra
B. Vikram
C. Chandrayaan-3
D. Gaganyaan
Answer: D. Gaganyaan
Explanation: The correct programme name is Gaganyaan. Its target schedules have subsequently shifted, so the quoted launch year belongs to the original 2022 question rather than a current forecast. The mission aims to send and safely return Indian astronauts.
Q32. Which listed effects can result from a major solar storm:
1. GPS disruption,
2. tsunamis,
3. grid damage,
4. auroras,
5. forest fires,
6. satellite-orbit disturbance,
7. polar-aircraft radio disruption?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2022, GS Paper I]
A. 1, 2, 4, 5 only
B. 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 only
C. 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 only
D. All seven
Answer: C. 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 only
Explanation: Solar storms can upset GPS signals, damage power systems, create auroras, alter satellite drag and disturb high-frequency radio links. They do not directly produce tsunamis or ignite forest fires, so items 2 and 5 are excluded.
Q31. Who was appointed as the tenth Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation in January 2022?
[UPSC NDA (I) 2022, General Ability Test, 10 April 2022]
A. A. S. Kiran Kumar
B. K. Sivan
C. K. Radhakrishnan
D. S. Somanath
Answer: D. S. Somanath
Explanation: Rocket scientist S. Somanath succeeded K. Sivan as ISRO Chairman in January 2022. He had previously led the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and contributed to launch-vehicle development and propulsion engineering, including work associated with PSLV and GSLV.
Q30. Why are very large astronomical distances expressed in light-years?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2021, GS Paper I]
A. Distances between stars never change
B. Gravitation between stars never changes
C. Light travels only in straight lines
D. The speed of light in vacuum is constant
Answer: D. The speed of light in vacuum is constant
Explanation: A light-year is the distance light travels through vacuum in one year, approximately 9.46 trillion kilometres. The constant speed of light provides a convenient physical reference for describing enormous distances between stars and galaxies.
Q29. Which is regarded as India’s first communication satellite?
[RRB NTPC 2020, General Awareness]
A. Rohini
B. Mars Orbiter Mission
C. Aryabhata
D. APPLE
Answer: D. APPLE
Explanation: APPLE, the Ariane Passenger Payload Experiment, was an experimental Indian geostationary communications satellite launched in June 1981. It demonstrated communications technology and helped lay groundwork for the later INSAT operational satellite system.
Q28. What was the significance of observing the merger of two distant giant black holes?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2019, GS Paper I]
A. Discovery of Higgs bosons
B. Detection of gravitational waves
C. Confirmation of wormhole travel
D. Proof of a naked singularity
Answer: B. Detection of gravitational waves
Explanation: The black-hole merger produced gravitational waves, ripples in spacetime predicted by Einstein’s relativity. The LIGO collaboration made the first direct detection in 2015, opening a new way of observing violent cosmic events.
Q27. About Indian launch vehicles:
1. PSLV is useful for Earth-resource satellites and GSLV for communications;
2. PSLV satellites appear fixed in the sky; 3 GSLV Mk III has four stages.
Which is correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2018, GS Paper I]
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 3 only
Answer: A. 1 only
Explanation: PSLV commonly delivers Earth-observation spacecraft to polar or sun-synchronous orbits, while GSLV places heavier communications payloads into transfer orbits. PSLV satellites do not generally appear stationary, and LVM3, formerly GSLV Mk III, has three principal stages.
Q26. Which scientist was appointed Chairman of ISRO in January 2018?
[RRB Group D, 10 December 2018 (Shift 1)]
A. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
B. A. S. Kiran Kumar
C. K. Sivan
D. Rakesh Sharma
Answer: C. K. Sivan
Explanation: K. Sivan took charge as ISRO Chairman in January 2018, succeeding A. S. Kiran Kumar. A launch-vehicle specialist, Sivan subsequently led the organisation during important programmes including the Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission and preparation for human spaceflight.
Q25. The terms event horizon, singularity, string theory and Standard Model are associated primarily with what?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2017, GS Paper I]
A. Understanding the universe
B. Solar and lunar eclipses only
C. Placing satellites in Earth orbit
D. Evolution of living organisms
Answer: A. Understanding the universe
Explanation: Event horizons and singularities arise in black-hole physics; string theory explores fundamental physical interactions; and the Standard Model explains elementary particles. These concepts belong broadly to modern theoretical physics and cosmology.
Q24. What is the objective of the evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA) project?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2017, GS Paper I]
A. Detect neutrinos
B. Detect gravitational waves
C. Test missile-defence systems
D. Study solar flare impacts on telecom
Answer: B. Detect gravitational waves
Explanation: eLISA is a proposed space-based gravitational-wave observatory concept involving widely separated spacecraft linked through precise laser measurements. It seeks to detect low-frequency spacetime ripples generated by massive astronomical events.
Q23. For AstroSat, assess
1. only India besides USA and Russia has such an observatory;
2. it weighs 2,000 kg and orbits at 1,650 km.
Which is correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2016, GS Paper I]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D. Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: AstroSat is an Indian multiband astronomy observatory launched in 2015 into an orbit around 650 km altitude, with launch mass approximately 1,515 kg. Other countries and organisations also operated space observatories, so both assertions are incorrect.
Q22. Mangalyaan:
1. is the Mars Orbiter Mission,
2. made India second after USA to orbit Mars,
3. succeeded on India’s first Mars-orbit attempt.
Which statements are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2016, GS Paper I]
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C. 1 and 3 only
Explanation: Mangalyaan is the Mars Orbiter Mission and successfully entered Mars orbit on its maiden attempt in September 2014. India was not the second country or agency overall to orbit Mars; earlier successes included Soviet, American and European missions.
Q21. Who is known as the father of India’s space programme?
[RRB NTPC 2016, General Awareness]
A. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
B. Vikram A. Sarabhai
C. K. Kasturirangan
D. Satish Dhawan
Answer: B. Vikram A. Sarabhai
Explanation: Vikram Sarabhai championed space technology for India’s developmental needs, helped found INCOSPAR and shaped ISRO. His leadership established the institutional direction for scientific rockets, satellite communications and remote sensing.
Q20. In which state is the Satish Dhawan Space Centre situated?
[RRB NTPC 2016, General Awareness]
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Madhya Pradesh
C. Andhra Pradesh
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: C. Andhra Pradesh
Explanation: The Satish Dhawan Space Centre is located at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. Its launch complexes support India’s orbital rocket missions, including PSLV, GSLV, LVM3 and recent small-satellite launch initiatives.
Q19. Which one is a satellite-based augmentation system?
[RRB NTPC 2016, General Awareness]
A. INSAT
B. GAGAN
C. GSAT
D. SARAL
Answer: B. GAGAN
Explanation: GAGAN, developed by ISRO and the Airports Authority of India, augments satellite navigation signals using ground stations and geostationary satellites. It improves accuracy and integrity, particularly for aircraft navigation and safety.
Q18. Which activities use Indian Remote Sensing satellites:
1. crop assessment,
2. groundwater prospecting,
3. mineral exploration,
4. telecommunications,
5. traffic studies?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2015, GS Paper I]
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 4 and 5 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. All five
Answer: A. 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation: The IRS series is designed primarily for Earth observation and natural-resource applications, including agriculture, groundwater and mineral mapping. Dedicated communication satellites, rather than IRS spacecraft, perform telecommunications services.
Q17. Which two satellites among GSAT-2, GSAT-4, GSAT-5P and GSAT-12 failed to reach their intended orbits?
[RPSC RAS Prelims 2015 (2013 Re-examination)]
A. GSAT-2 and GSAT-4
B. GSAT-4 and GSAT-5P
C. GSAT-5P and GSAT-12
D. GSAT-12 and GSAT-2
Answer: B. GSAT-4 and GSAT-5P
Explanation: GSAT-4 was lost during the unsuccessful GSLV-D3 flight in April 2010, and GSAT-5P was lost when GSLV-F06 failed in December 2010. GSAT-2 and GSAT-12 were successfully placed into orbit on separate launches.
Q16. Which spacecraft–purpose pairs are correctly matched:
1. Cassini–Huygens/Venus,
2. MESSENGER/Mercury,
3. Voyager 1 and 2/outer solar system?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2014, GS Paper I]
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All three
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: Cassini–Huygens explored Saturn and its moon Titan rather than Venus. NASA’s MESSENGER mapped Mercury, while Voyager 1 and 2 explored the outer solar system. Therefore only pairs 2 and 3 are correct.
Q15. The Indian GSAT-7 satellite was developed primarily for which purpose?
[RPSC RAS Prelims 2013, General Knowledge]
A. Weather forecasting
B. Military communication
C. Mars exploration
D. Lunar mapping
Answer: B. Military communication
Explanation: GSAT-7, nicknamed Rukmini, is a dedicated communications satellite supporting Indian defence requirements, particularly naval operations. It provides secure links across a wide maritime area, unlike Earth-observation, weather or planetary exploration satellites.
Q14. Which statements support the expansion of the universe:
1. observations of cosmic microwave background radiation;
2. observations of redshift in distant galaxies;
3. movement of asteroids in the Solar System;
4. occurrence of supernova explosions?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2012, General Studies]
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1, 3 and 4
D. None of the above
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation: The cosmic microwave background and redshift of distant galaxies support the expanding-universe model. Motion of asteroids within the Solar System is not evidence of cosmic expansion. The mere occurrence of supernova explosions is also not proof; distance–redshift measurements of supernovae are relevant.
Q13. Why does an artificial satellite in orbit not simply fall to Earth?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2011, GS Paper I]
A. Earth exerts no attraction
B. The Moon cancels Earth’s gravity
C. Earth supplies a constant orbital speed
D. Earth’s attraction provides acceleration for orbital motion
Answer: D. Earth’s attraction provides acceleration for orbital motion
Explanation: Gravity continuously accelerates the satellite toward Earth, bending its path into an orbit while its tangential speed carries it forward. It remains in free fall around the planet instead of dropping straight to the surface.
Q12. A geostationary telecommunications satellite must have which properties:
1. geosynchronous period,
2. circular orbit,
3. equatorial orbit,
4. altitude 22,236 km?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2011, GS Paper I]
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All four
Answer: A. 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation: A geostationary satellite circles Earth in the equatorial plane with the same angular rate as Earth’s rotation, making it appear fixed over a longitude. Its altitude is about 35,786 km, not 22,236 km.
Q11. According to the question, Oceansat-2 helps in
1. atmospheric water-vapour assessment,
2. monsoon-related forecasting, and
3. coastal-water pollution monitoring.
Which are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2010, GS Paper I]
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Oceansat-2 was launched in 2009 to study ocean colour and ocean-surface winds. Such observations help environmental and coastal-water monitoring and contribute to ocean–atmosphere analysis relevant to monsoon studies.
Q10. What is “Bhuvan” in the context of Indian space technology?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2010, GS Paper I]
A. A distance-education satellite
B. A lunar impact probe
C. An ISRO geoportal with 3D visualisation capabilities
D. An Indian space telescope
Answer: C. An ISRO geoportal with 3D visualisation capabilities
Explanation: Bhuvan is ISRO’s geospatial visualisation platform, using Indian Earth-observation data to show maps and thematic layers. Its applications include planning, natural-resource management, agriculture and disaster-response support.
Q9. At which location was the test stand used by ISRO for a cryogenic rocket-engine test in 2007?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2008, GS Paper I]
A. Balasore
B. Thiruvananthapuram
C. Mahendragiri
D. Karwar
Answer: C. Mahendragiri
Explanation: Mahendragiri in Tamil Nadu houses important rocket-propulsion facilities, including cryogenic-engine testing infrastructure. Cryogenic propulsion uses very-low-temperature propellants and is essential for high-energy upper stages of larger orbital launch vehicles.
Q8. What was the European Union’s Galileo Project designed to create?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2007, GS Paper I]
A. An American missile shield
B. An Indo-Canadian satellite project
C. A Japanese environmental protection project
D. A multi-satellite navigation system
Answer: D. A multi-satellite navigation system
Explanation: Galileo is Europe’s satellite navigation system, developed to provide global position, navigation and timing information. It serves civil applications and operates independently from GPS, GLONASS and other satellite navigation constellations.
Q7. Regarding INSAT-4A, which are correct:
1. launched from New Mexico;
2. Arianespace was launch provider;
3. used for DTH television services?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2006, GS Paper I]
A. 1, 2 and 3
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: INSAT-4A was launched from Kourou in French Guiana by an Ariane rocket in December 2005. The Indian communications satellite supported television services, including direct-to-home broadcasting; it was not launched from New Mexico.
Q6. Consider:
1. METSAT was launched in September 2002;
2. PSLV-C4 carried a payload above 1,000 kg toward geosynchronous orbit.
Which statements are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2003, GS Paper I]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: METSAT, later named Kalpana-1, was India’s dedicated meteorological satellite launched by PSLV-C4 in September 2002. The approximately 1,060-kg payload was placed into a geosynchronous transfer orbit, demonstrating a new PSLV mission capability.
Q5. With reference to Indian satellites and launchers, consider:
1. All INSAT-series satellites were launched abroad;
2. PSLVs were used to launch IRS-series satellites;
3. India first used indigenous cryogenic engines in GSLV’s third stage;
4. GSAT launched in 2001 carried demonstration payloads for digital broadcasts and internet services.
Which are correct?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2002, General Studies]
A. 1, 2, 3 and 4
B. 2, 3 and 4
C. 1, 2 and 4
D. 1 and 3
Answer: C. 1, 2 and 4
Explanation: INSAT satellites had been launched abroad, PSLV supported the IRS series, and GSAT-1 tested communications technologies. Early GSLV flights, however, used Russian-supplied cryogenic engines. The successful first flight using an Indian cryogenic upper-stage engine occurred in 2014, making statement 3 false.
Q4. Who was ISRO Chairman when INSAT-3B was launched?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2001, GS Paper I]
A. Anil Kakodkar
B. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
C. K. Kasturirangan
D. U. R. Rao
Answer: C. K. Kasturirangan
Explanation: K. Kasturirangan led ISRO from 1994 to 2003. INSAT-3B, an Indian communications satellite, was launched in 2000 under his chairmanship, contributing to communications and broadcasting capacity.
Q3. Cryogenics, the science of very low temperatures, finds application in which set of fields?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 1998, GS Paper I]
A. Space travel, surgery and magnetic levitation
B. Surgery, magnetic levitation and telemetry
C. Space travel, surgery and telemetry
D. Space travel, magnetic levitation and telemetry
Answer: A. Space travel, surgery and magnetic levitation
Explanation: Cryogenic technology supports liquid-propellant rockets, low-temperature medical procedures and superconducting magnets used in magnetic levitation systems. These applications rely on the distinctive behaviour of materials and gases at very low temperatures.
Q2. Which satellite was scheduled to be launched from India in 1996?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 1996, GS Paper I]
A. IRS-P2
B. IRS-P3
C. IRS-EN
D. IRS-ID
Answer: B. IRS-P3
Explanation: IRS-P3 was launched by India’s PSLV on 21 March 1996 from Sriharikota. It was an Indian Remote Sensing satellite carrying instruments for Earth-observation and scientific applications, building on the earlier IRS series.
Q1. Cryogenic rocket engines find applications primarily in which field?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 1995, GS Paper I]
A. Submarine propulsion
B. Frost-free refrigerators
C. Rocket technology
D. Research on superconductivity
Answer: C. Rocket technology
Explanation: Cryogenic rocket engines use propellants stored at extremely low temperatures, such as liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. Their high performance makes them valuable in upper stages of rockets carrying satellites and other spacecraft into demanding orbits.