UPSC Mains 2017 GS3 Q7 — Space Technology
India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space missions. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics ? Examine critically. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Examine critically
- Scope keywords
- unmanned space missionsChandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Missionmanned space missionsobstaclestechnology and logistics
- Implicit sub-parts
- Briefly contrast the safety/complexity requirements of human vs. robotic missions.
- Categorize technical hurdles such as Life Support Systems (ECLSS) and Crew Escape Systems.
- Analyze logistical/institutional challenges including astronaut training and budget trade-offs.
- Evaluate why previous successes in unmanned missions do not automatically translate to manned success.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words describing Chandrayaan/Mangalyaan successes instead of focusing on the 'obstacles'.
- Failing to distinguish between technical hurdles (hardware) and logistical hurdles (training/infrastructure).
- Ignoring the 'Critically' part of the directive—not mentioning the 'why' (e.g., ethical risks of failure or the high cost-to-benefit ratio).
- Listing general space challenges without specifically addressing 'manned' requirements like re-entry and recovery.
- Dimensions required
- Technological/EngineeringLogistical/InfrastructureHuman Physiology/BiomedicalEconomic/Financial
- Marks allocation hint
Dedicate 20 words to the transition from unmanned to manned missions. Spend 60 words on specific technical barriers like ECLSS and heavy-lift launch vehicles. Use 50 words for logistical hurdles like astronaut selection and recovery protocols. Allocate the final 20 words to a critical summary of the necessity versus the risk.
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