Understanding the Daksha Mission and Its Role in Dark Matter Research

What is Daksha?

Daksha is an innovative Indian astronomical mission spearheaded by IIT Bombay. It utilizes two satellites positioned in orbit on opposite sides of the Earth, allowing for comprehensive monitoring of the sky for gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) and other X-ray and gamma-ray phenomena.

Understanding Dark Matter

Dark matter constitutes approximately five-sixths of the universe’s total mass. This invisible mass does not interact with light, making it undetectable through direct observation. Its presence is inferred through its gravitational effects on visible matter.

How Daksha Aids in Studying Dark Matter

One of Daksha's key contributions is its ability to detect tiny primordial black holes (PBHs) that might account for dark matter. It does so by observing the gravitational lensing effects these PBHs have on gamma-ray bursts.

These PBHs, which vary in size from 0.01 nanometers to a micrometer, can bend X-rays, enabling larger telescopes to detect these subtle signals.

Key Highlights of Daksha’s Capabilities

• Wide Sky Coverage: The dual-satellite setup of Daksha offers a ten-fold improvement over previous missions, enhancing the detection of transient events like GRBs.
• Sensitive Detectors: Daksha is equipped with advanced detectors capable of identifying thousands of GRBs and their electromagnetic counterparts, particularly during neutron star mergers.
• Strategic Positioning: The separation of the two satellites allows for accurate measurements of GRB magnifications, enhancing the potential for detecting dark matter through gravitational lensing.

Significance of Daksha’s Mission

• Gravitational Waves and Electromagnetic Counterparts: Daksha can quickly respond to gravitational wave events, providing crucial electromagnetic data that complements these detections.
• Comprehensive Monitoring: Beyond dark matter studies, Daksha will monitor solar flares, magnetized neutron stars, fast radio bursts, supernova remnants, and gamma-ray lightning in Earth's atmosphere.
• Potential Breakthroughs: Utilizing Daksha's capabilities could allow scientists to explore the PBH mass window for the first time, potentially unveiling the true nature of dark matter.

Conclusion

In summary, Daksha represents a significant leap in astronomical observation technology. Its ability to monitor a wide range of cosmic phenomena and detect dark matter makes it an invaluable asset to scientists. From studying solar flares to exploring neutron star mergers, Daksha is poised to answer fundamental questions about our universe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main objective of the Daksha mission?
Answer: The Daksha mission aims to monitor gamma-ray bursts and study dark matter through the detection of primordial black holes using advanced satellite technology.

Q2. How does Daksha detect dark matter?
Answer: Daksha detects dark matter by observing the gravitational lensing effects of primordial black holes on gamma-ray bursts, which helps identify their presence and properties.

Q3. What are primordial black holes?
Answer: Primordial black holes are tiny black holes that may have formed in the early universe and could potentially constitute a part of dark matter.

Q4. Why is Daksha important for gravitational wave studies?
Answer: Daksha provides critical electromagnetic data that complements gravitational wave detections, enhancing our understanding of cosmic events.

Q5. What other phenomena will Daksha monitor?
Answer: Apart from dark matter studies, Daksha will monitor solar flares, fast radio bursts, and other significant astronomical events for comprehensive research.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary function of the Daksha mission?
A) To study exoplanets
B) To monitor gamma-ray bursts and dark matter
C) To explore Mars
D) To analyze solar winds
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which institution leads the Daksha mission?
A) ISRO
B) IIT Bombay
C) NASA
D) DRDO
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What might primordial black holes help scientists understand?
A) Solar flares
B) Dark matter
C) Planet formation
D) Cosmic rays
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How does Daksha improve sky coverage?
A) By using a single satellite
B) By employing advanced telescopes
C) By using two satellites
D) By focusing on one location
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What type of waves can Daksha respond to rapidly?
A) Sound waves
B) Radio waves
C) Gravitational waves
D) Light waves
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: Which events will Daksha monitor aside from gamma-ray bursts?
A) Earthquakes
B) Solar flares and neutron star mergers
C) Ocean currents
D) Atmospheric pressure changes
Correct Answer: B