24 August 2023 Current Affairs – The Day’s Top News | GKSERIES

Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 24 August 2023, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.

So, here is the Top News of the Day for 24 August 2023 to help you prepare the Latest Current Affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.

Current Affairs for Competitive Exam – 24 August 2023

First Mission of Moon

The Apollo 11 mission, the first mission to the Moon, is regarded as one of the most significant moments in human history, as it was the first successful attempt to land a human on the Moon. Apollo 11, launched on 16^th July, 1969 and returning on 24^th July, captivated the world’s attention and forever altered our understanding of space exploration and human potential.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Launch and Journey to the Moon

The colossal Saturn V Launch Vehicle, standing at 111 meters tall and weighing over 6.6 million pounds, propelled the Apollo 11 spacecraft into space from Cape Kennedy (now Cape Canaveral), Florida.

The crew of Apollo 11 consisted of three astronauts:

• Neil Armstrong: Mission Commander
• Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin: Lunar Module Pilot
• Michael Collins: Commander Module Pilot

Composition of Spacecraft

The spacecraft was comprised of two main parts:

• The commander module: Columbia, where Collins remained in lunar orbit.
• The lunar module: Eagle, which Armstrong and Aldrin used to descend to the Moon’s surface.

Landing and Historic Moonwalk

After entering lunar orbit, Armstrong and Aldrin transferred to the lunar module and prepared for the descent. On 20^th July 1969, they initiated a powered descent to the lunar surface. During the descent, the navigation computer generated alarms owing to memory overflows, but the astronauts remained calm and successfully manoeuvred to avoid a potentially dangerous landing spot.

At an altitude of about 15,000 meters, Armstrong took manual control and steered the lunar module to a safer landing spot. As the craft touched down, Armstrong’s words resonated through history: “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Armstrong and Aldrin explored the Moon’s surface for over two hours, conducting experiments, taking photographs and collecting rock and soil samples. They also set up scientific instruments to measure various aspects of the lunar environment. The ascent stage of the lunar module then returned them to lunar orbit, where they rejoined Collins in the command module.

Return and Legacy of Apollo 11 mission

After rejoining with Collins in lunar orbit, the crew began their journey back to Earth. On July 24, 1969, they safely landed in the Pacific Ocean. Upon their journey, the crew was placed in quarantine to prevent the potential spread of any lunar microorganisms, though it was unlikely they had encountered any.

The success of Apollo 11 mission was an evidence of human ingenuity, determination and collaboration. It marked the culmination of the Apollo program’s efforts to achieve President John E. Kennedy’s goal of landing humans on the Moon and returning them safely to Earth.

ISRO Chairman List (1963 to 2023): Name & Working Period

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is India’s Space Agency which has its headquarters in Bengaluru. ISRO’s parent organisation is the Department of Space, to which it reports. The Chairman of ISRO is also a DOS executive.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

During the period from 1963 to 2023, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has led by a series of visionary chairmen who have played a pivotal role in shaping India’s space exploration and technology endeavours. These chairmen have presided over ISRO’s incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming a worldwide recognised space organisation, including milestones such as satellite launches, interplanetary missions, and multinational collaborations.

List of ISRO Chairman from 1963 to 2023

There have been 11 ISRO Chairpersons appointed since 1963. On 12 January 2022, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) appointed S. Somnath as the eleventh chairman of the ISRO. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai was the first IRSO Chairman.

Some facts related to Chairpersons of ISRO:

Vikram Sarabhai (1963 to 1972):

He is considered as the father of the Indian Space Program. Vikaram Sarabhai established three institutions:

1. Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad.
2. Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad.
3. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram.
4. Faster Breeder Test Reactor, Kalpakkam.

M.G.K. Menon (Jan-Sep 1972):

He was known for his work on cosmic rays and particle physics, particularly on the high-energy inter-actions of elementary particles.

• He was instrumental in establishing the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai.
• He won the Abdus Salam Award and was a member of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.
• The asteroid 7564 Gokumenon was named in his honour in late 2008.

Satish Dhawan (1972-1984):

• He succeeded Vikram Sarabhai as Chairman of ISRO in 1972. In India, his efforts resulted in functioning systems such as INSAT and PSLV.
• He was one of the most eminent researchers in the field of turbulence and boundary layers.
• He was regarded as the father of experimental fluid dynamics research in India.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao (1984-1994):

He took the responsibility for the establishment of satellite technology in India in 1972. He was the primary designer of the first Indian satellite, ‘Aryabhata,’ in 1975.

He was also the chairman of the Governing Council of the Physical Research Laboratory at Ahmedabad and Nehru Planetarium at Bengaluru and chancellor of the Indian Institute for Space Science and Technology.

• He is also known as ‘The Satellite Man of India’.

Krishna Swami Kasturirangan (1994-2003):

Under his leadership, ISRO has witnessed several major milestones in the name of PSLV and GSLV. He was also the Project Director for BHASKARA-I and II, India’s first two experimental earth observation satellites. He was also the director of the National Institute of Advanced Sciences, Bangalore.

• He is a recipient of three major civilian awards: the Padma Shri, the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan.

Shri G. Madhavan Nair (2003-2009):

Chandrayaan-1 was launched under the chairmanship of Madhavan Nair. During his tenure, ISRO accomplished 25 successful missions.

• In 2009, he received the Padma Vibhushan award.
• He was the chairman of the Board of Governors of the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna.
• He was also the chairman of the Space Commission and chairman of the Governing Body of the Antrix Corporation.

K. Radhakrishnan (2009-2014):

India’s first interplanetary mission ‘Mangalyaan’ was launched under the leadership of Dr. K. Radhakrishnan.

• From 2000 to 2005, he worked for the Ministry of Earth Sciences as the Director of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).

Shri A S Kiran Kumar (2015-2018):

He has done a commendable job in the launch of Chandrayaan-1 and Mars Orbiter Mission of India. Indian National Regional Navigation System (INRVS) and GAGAN have been developed under his supervision.

• H was honoured with India’s fourth highest civilian award, Padma Sri in 2014.
• He also served as a director of Ahmedabad Space Application Centre.

K. Sivan (2018-2022):

• During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of Chandrayaan-2 and the acceleration of India’s human space mission.
• He also served as the director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.

S. Somnath (Jan.2022 to present): 

S. Somnath has been appointed as the eleventh chairperson of the ISRO by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). 

• Somnath also served as the director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
• He is also known for his contributions to launch vehicle design, particularly in the areas of launch vehicle systems      

Chandrayaan-3 becomes world’s most viewed live-stream on YouTube

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved an impressive feat on YouTube’s live streaming platform. The Chandrayaan-3 Mission Soft-landing LIVE Telecast, which aired on August 23, 2023, had over 80 lakh peak concurrent viewers (PCVs), making it the most-watched live stream in the world.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

The Chandrayaan-3 Mission surpassed the Brazil vs. Croatia football match from the FIFA World Cup 2022, which had 61 lakh PCVs, and the Brazil vs. South Korea football match from the same tournament, which had 52 lakh PCVs. ISRO also beat Cariocão 2023 Serie A semi-final between Vasco da Gama and Flamengo with 47 lakh PCVs. The top names in the list include Crew Demo-2 by SpaceX (40 lakh), the K-pop sensation BTS’s ‘Butter’ Official MV (37 lakh) and Johnny Depp v Amber Heard Defamation Trial (35 lakh).

About the Chandrayaan-3

Chandrayaan-3, the third lunar mission by India, garnered an immense audience during its live telecast as space enthusiasts and curious minds alike tuned in to witness the endeavour’s crucial moments.

This achievement has elevated India to a distinguished position as the fourth nation – subsequent to the United States, China, and Russia – to achieve a successful moon landing. However, India’s achievement is indelible in history because it was the first nation to land on the southern hemisphere of Earth’s lone natural satellite.

First ISRO Chairman 2023, Name and Tenure

The Indian Space Research Organization has played an instrumental role in transforming India into a space-faring nation with its remarkable achievements in space exploration and technology. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the first chairman of ISRO, established the groundwork for ISRO’s success story with his pursuit of scientific excellence and genuine commitment to improving India’s space capabilities.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Early Life and Education

Birth date: 12^th August 1919

Birth place: Ahmedabad, Bombay Presidency, British India

Vikram Sarabhai was born to a Sarabhai family, known for being part of India’s fight for freedom and their involvement in business. Vikram demonstated an early inclination towards scientific pursuits and after completing his initial education at Gujarat College, Ahmedabad, he pursued higher studies at the University of Cambridge. He earned a degree in natural sciences in 1940. His academic career continued when he went to Cambridge for his Ph.D. in 1945, focused on “Cosmic Ray Investigations in Tropical Latitudes,” demonstrating his early interest in space-related research.

Scientific Career

One of Sarabhai’s most significant achievements was the establishment of the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in 1947. PRL had a modest beginning at his residence, the “RETREAT”. The institute expanded its research scope, encompassing cosmic rays, upper atmosphere properties, theoretical physics and radio physics. With support from Institutions like the Atomic Energy Commission, PRL flourished under Sarabhai’s guidance.

The Visionary behind ISRO

Sarabhai’s visionary leadership played a pivotal role in the formation of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) as the first chairman of ISRO. His dream of utilizing space technology for India’s progress led to the fabrication and launch of the country’s first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975 from a Russian cosmodrome. This monumental accomplishment signalled India’s entry into the space age. ISRO is continuing to build on his legacy, having achieved major milestones in space exploration, satellite technology, and interplanetary missions.

Diverse Interests of Vikram Sarabhai

Beyond Sarabhai’s remarkable contributions to space research, Sarabhai’s interests extended to diverse domains. He established the Operations Research Group (ORG), India’s first market research organisation. His role in setting up institutions like the Nehru Foundation for Development, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) and Ahmedabad Textile Industry’s Research Association (ATIRA) demonstrated his commitment to education and development.

Positions and Honors

Sarabhai’s leadership extended to esteemed positions such as the President of the Physics section at the Indian Science Congress and the Chairman of India’s Atomic Energy Commission. He was also President of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (I.A.E.A.) General Conference.

Legacy and Inspiration

Vikram Sarabhai’s enduring inspiration is woven into the fabric of India’s scientific and technological progress. His pioneering spirit and exceptional leadership laid the foundation for India’s remarkable achievements in space science and technology.

US FDA Approves Pfizer’s Maternal RSV Vaccine To Protect Infants

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently grants approval to the first vaccine created to forestall (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) RSV-associated LRTD (Lower respiratory tract disease) and severe cases in infants spanning birth to 6 months. This momentous decision is fostering optimism among parents and healthcare providers working diligently to protect the well-being of these susceptible infants.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

A New Shield for Infants: Pfizer’s Maternal RSV Vaccine

The FDA’s approval centers around Pfizer’s maternal respiratory syncytial vaccine, known by the brand name Abrysvo. This vaccination is an important milestone in maternal and infant healthcare because it is the first to be approved for use specifically in pregnant women; it is intended for administration between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation and is administered via a single-dose injection into the muscle. This innovation in vaccine development and administration could significantly impact the prevalence and severity of RSV-related illnesses among infants.

Tackling the Leading Cause of Infant Lower Respiratory Tract Disease

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is notorious for being the primary cause of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in infants. Infants have faced persistent risks from RSV, frequently resulting in lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) like bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The most critical period for RSV-related health issues usually occurs within the first three months of life. The availability of a vaccination approved for use during pregnancy is a huge step forward. Healthcare providers hope to reduce the occurrence of RSV-related illnesses and the difficulties placed on families and healthcare systems by extending protection to the earliest stages of life.

Seasonal Challenge and Long-Term Effects

In the United States, RSV follows a seasonal pattern, with its circulation typically starting in the fall and peaking during the winter months. The FDA acknowledges that by the age of two, most children are expected to have encountered RSV. While RSV infections are common, the effects can be severe, resulting in bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and other life-threatening conditions. Infants, especially those in their first year of life, face the highest risk of RSV-associated LRTD. In fact, RSV is a leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States.

Reducing RSV-Related Impact through Extended Protection

By encompassing pregnant women and their newborns within its protective scope, this vaccine holds the promise of substantially diminishing the repercussions of RSV-related illnesses on families and healthcare systems alike. As the field of medical science forges ahead, this significant milestone sets the stage for a more robust and healthier future for the most tender and susceptible members of our society.

Key takeaways for competitive examinations

• Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Peter Marks

Srettha was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Thailand

Move Forward Alliance (MFP) won the majority of seats in the May 2023 election, Thailand’s parliament voted to appoint Srettha Thavisin of the Pyu Thai Party as the country’s new prime minister.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

The Thai parliament voted a day earlier to elect Srettha of the Pheu Thai party as the country’s new prime minister, after a monthslong deadlock since the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) secured the biggest number of seats in May’s polls. Srettha required 375 votes from the country’s upper and lower houses combined to become prime minister. Pheu Thai, which came second in the election, had initially allied itself with the MFP, alongside six other parties. However, earlier in August, it opted to seek a new partnership without the MFP, whose candidature for prime minister was denied at least twice. Pheu Thai now leads an 11-party alliance that includes two former military adversaries. Under Thailand’s military-implemented constitution, both the lower and upper houses of parliament vote together for the prime minister.

Sachin Tendulkar was Appointed as the Election Commission of India’s National Voter Awareness Ambassador.

On August 23rd, 2023, Indian cricket legend and Bharat Ratna winner Sachin Tendulkar was elected as the Election Commission of India’s national ambassador for election-voter awareness and education for the tenure of this appointment for “Three Years”. 

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Leveraging Tendulkar’s immense influence, particularly among the youth, the collaboration aims to enhance voter participation in upcoming elections, including the General Elections of 2024. The initiative also seeks to bridge the gap between citizens, especially the youth and urban populations, and the electoral process, addressing challenges like urban and youth apathy. Tendulkar joins a prestigious group of national icons that includes actor Pankaj Tripathi and activist Dr. Niru Kumar.

International Day for the Abolition of the Slave Trade and its Abolition 2023

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is celebrated on August 23. It marks the day when an uprising began in Saint Domingue, now called Haiti, on August 23, 1791, against the slave trade. Haiti was a French settlement and a center of the slave trade across Europe. The uprising led to a revolution against the rulers of the country.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

It is against this background that the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is commemorated on 23 August each year. It was first celebrated in a number of countries, in particular in Haiti (23 August 1998) and Gorée Island in Senegal (23 August 1999).

This International Day is intended to inscribe the tragedy of the slave trade in the memory of all peoples. In accordance with the goals of the intercultural project “The Routes of Enslaved Peoples”, it should offer an opportunity for collective consideration of the historic causes, the methods and the consequences of this tragedy, and for an analysis of the interactions to which it has given rise between Africa, Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean.

Jitendra Singh unveils new lotus variety ‘Namoh 108’

Minister of Science Jitendra Singh, launched “NBRI Namoh 108”, a unique variety of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) with 108 petals, in Lucknow.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

It was developed by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research- National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow

Jitendra Singh also introduced apparel made from lotus fibre and perfume ‘Frotus’. The perfume is extracted from lotus flowers and was developed by NBRI, and the Fragrance & Flavour Development Centre

Sachin to be National Icon for voter awarenes and Education for EC of India

Bharat Ratna awardee Sachin Tendulkar would begin a new inning as the ‘National Icon’ for voter awareness and education for the election commission of India.

MoU will be signed with Sachin for a period of three years in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar in New Delhi.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Aim: To bridge the gap between citizens, especially youth and urban populations, and the electoral process thereby, trying to address the challenges of urban and youth apathy.

Addressing the gathering, Tendulkar said, “We are the largest democracy in the world, and it is our prime responsibility to exercise our voting rights with due diligence… It is a responsibility that should not be ignored. Everyone should be aware of when the elections are happening and when is that window to go out and vote.”

China launches Gaofen Earth-observation satellite

China sent a new Earth observation satellite Gaofen-12 04 into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

The satellite, Gaofen-12 04, was launched by a Long March-4C carrier rocket  and has entered the planned orbit successfully.

It will be used in a variety of fields, including land surveys, urban planning, road network design, crop yield estimation and disaster relief. The launch marks the 484th flight mission of the Long March series carrier rockets.

4th G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) Meeting to begin in Varanasi

The 4th G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) Meeting will begin in Varanasi in August 2023.

Aim: To arrive at actionable outcomes while positioning culture at the heart of policy-making.

G20 Culture: Shaping the Global Narrative for Inclusive Growth”. will be launched in Varanasi as a part of the Culture Ministers’ Meeting. 

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

The CWG will also release a special stamp to commemorate the Culture Unites All’ campaign to highlight India’s unwavering belief in multilateralism.

 The Culture Ministers’ Meeting in Varanasi will aim to catalyze collective actions for accelerating progress on the four priority areas articulated by the Indian Presidency- Protection and Restitution of Cultural Property, Harnessing Living Heritage for a Sustainable Future, Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy, and Leveraging Digital Technologies for the Protection and Promotion of Culture.