Centre launched PM innovative learning programme DHRUV:

The government launched the Pradhan Mantri innovative learning programme DHRUV in Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Bengaluru. The programme was launched by the Union Minister for Human Resources Development Ramesh Pokhariyal Nishank on 10 October. Centre has selected 60 qualified students for the 14-day long program which began on 10 October.

DHRUV:

DHRUV is a unique programme that aimed to identify talented students. 

The students will be mentored in the centre of excellence for 14 days so that they can reach their full potential and work for society. It will conclude on 24 October at IIT-Delhi. 

Selection of students:

The programme will sharpen the innovative skills and knowledge of the students. The students will likely suggest solutions to socio-economic, political and environmental issues relating to the country. 

First ever spacecraft that can service satellites in space launched:

US-based Northrop Grumman Corporation launched the first satellite-servicing spacecraft robotic Mission Extension Vehicle-1 (MEV-1) successfully. It was launched aboard a Russian Proton rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It was launched along with the Eutelsat 5 West B communications satellite.

Mission of MEV-1:

The MEV-1 is a satellite service spacecraft. The mission of the spacecraft is to provide service to the Intelsat 901. MEV-1 will lend Intelsat 901, to make use of its orientation thrusters to put it back into an ideal target orbit. The mission aims to extend the useful span of the 18-year-old satellite by 5 years. MEV-1 spacecraft itself has a 15-year useful life. The spacecraft can dock and undock multiple times.

After completing the mission successfully, the MEV-1 could service any other orbital satellite that is running low on its own propellant supply.

The students from classes 9 to 12 from government and private schools are chosen for the programme.

30 students from the science group and 30 others from Performing Arts will be selected finally by an advisory committee headed by the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) in consultation with the Department of Science and Technology, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog and NCERT.