Contrary to previous beliefs, recent scientific discoveries reveal that the rings of Saturn are much younger than initially thought. Scientists have estimated their age to be no more than 100 million years old, dating back to the period when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
Historically, it was believed that the ring system had formed simultaneously with the planet itself. The conception was that these magnificent rings were the result of icy debris left orbiting Saturn after the formation of the solar system. However, new data gathered by NASA’s Cassini spacecraft paints a different picture.
NASA’s Cassini Spacecraft
After completing its mission, Cassini plunged into Saturn’s gravitational field. This fall allowed the orbiter to function as a probe, capturing detailed and close-up data of the planet and its mesmerizing rings.
Cassini was launched on October 15, 1997, and ended its mission on September 15, 2017. Throughout its journey, it had a significant role in studying Saturn and its moons in great detail. A prominent achievement of the Cassini mission was landing the Huygens probe on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, in January 2005.
| Mission | Launched | End of Mission |
|---|---|---|
| Cassini | Oct. 15, 1997 | Sept. 15, 2017 |
Saturn – The Jovian Planet
Saturn holds the position of the second-largest planet, following Jupiter, in our Solar System. It is characterized as a Jovian planet, meaning it is primarily composed of gas. Among Uranus and Neptune, Saturn is the only planet to have distinctive rings. Currently, Saturn has 62 confirmed natural satellites, or moons, orbiting it.
Review of District Mineral Fund
Stepping away from the celestial bodies, let’s take a look at an important initiative undertaken by The Ministry of Mines on earth. They recently requested State governments to complete an audit of the District Mineral Fund (DMF) spent until the financial year 2017-18 before the end of the current financial year (2018-19).
The DMF operates under Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY). It aims to minimize or mitigate adverse impacts during and after mining on the environment, health, and socio-economic conditions of people in mining districts. It also ensures a sustainable livelihood for the affected population.
District Mineral Foundation – A Life-altering Initiative
Established under the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act (MMDRA) 2015, the DMF is a non-profit body in those districts affected by mining operations. It uses funds collected from miners to improve living conditions and infrastructure.
The allocation of the funds exhibits wise and considerate planning. Sixty percent of the funds are designated to high priority areas like drinking water supply, healthcare, sanitation, education, skill development, women and child care, welfare of aged and disabled people, and environmental conservation. The remaining 40% are used for physical infrastructure, irrigation, energy, and watershed development. This dedication to improving the conditions of districts affected by mining activities demonstrates the positive potential of such industry-related funds.
