Question 92 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Current
Affairs

Question

What is 'Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)', recently in the news?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Electric plane tested by NASA

Strategy: This question tests direct knowledge of recent scientific and technological developments. Identify the specific project, 'Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)', and recall its primary association. The name corresponds to a well-publicized NASA project involving an electric plane. Match this information with the provided options. Option A accurately describes the GL-10, rendering other options incorrect as they refer to different types of projects or developers.

Key Info: **Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)**
- The Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10) is an experimental unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by NASA. It is a tilt-wing, battery-powered aircraft.
- It features ten electric motors: eight on the main wing and two on the tail boom.
- The primary design goal was to demonstrate an aircraft capable of Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) like a helicopter, but also able to transition to efficient horizontal flight like a conventional airplane.
- NASA conducted successful flight tests of the GL-10 prototype in 2015, highlighting its potential for future electric propulsion in aviation, including for commercial and military applications. The project aimed to advance green aviation technology.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Space observatory launched by China

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Reusable rocket designed by ISRO