CONTENTS

1. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
2. World Health Day 2024

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Context:

Recently, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory celebrated its 125th birth anniversary.

Relevance:

Facts for Prelims

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Solar Observatory: An Overview
2. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)

Solar Observatory: An Overview

Definition and Purpose

• A solar observatory is an institution or facility focused on observing and studying the Sun.
• Utilizes specialized telescopes and instruments to study phenomena on the Sun’s surface, atmosphere, and surrounding space.

Significance

• The Sun is the primary energy source for life on Earth; changes in its surface or surrounding areas can impact Earth’s atmosphere.
• Solar storms and flares can jeopardize satellite operations, power grids, and navigation systems.
• Solar observatories enable scientists to monitor and predict these events affecting Earth’s atmosphere.

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)

Introduction and Location

• Owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, established in 1899.
• Located on the southern tip of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu.

Notable Discoveries

• First detection of the Evershed effect in January 1909, which is the apparent radial flow of gas in the penumbra (outer region) of sunspots.

Historical Context and Establishment

• Motivated by the need to explore the connection between solar activity and monsoons, particularly after the Great Drought of 1875-1877 in India.
• During 1876-1878, concurrent multi-year droughts affected India, China, Egypt, Morocco, Ethiopia, southern Africa, Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, resulting in a global famine that claimed nearly 50 million lives.
• The Famine Commission recommended establishing a solar observatory for systematic solar observations.
• Charles Michie Smith was tasked with locating an appropriate site, choosing Kodaikanal for its clear skies, low humidity, and minimal fog.

Historical Predecessor: Madras Observatory

• Established by the British East India Company in Chennai in 1792, it was the first of its kind in the region.
• Recorded astronomical observations of the Sun, Moon, stars, and planets from 1812-1825.
• Merged with KoSO during the reorganization of Indian observatories in April 1899.

World Health Day 2024

Context:

World Health Day 2024 is celebrated every year on April 7.

Relevance:

Facts for Prelims

About World Health Day

Objective

• World Health Day aims to raise awareness about global health issues and promote healthier living among individuals.

History

• Origins:
  • World Health Day traces its roots back to 1948 during the First Health Assembly organized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • The assembly decided to mark April 7th as World Health Day, which was officially launched in 1950.
• Evolution:
  • Throughout the years, World Health Day celebrations have consistently focused on raising awareness around a specific health theme.
  • These themes highlight priority areas of concern identified by the World Health Organization.

2024 Theme: ‘My Health, My Rights’

• Purpose:
  • The theme underscores the universal right of every individual to:
    • Access quality health services, education, and information.
    • Enjoy safe drinking water, clean air, and good nutrition.
    • Have quality housing, decent working conditions, and a safe environment.
    • Live free from discrimination.
• Significance:
  • The theme emphasizes the importance of health rights and promotes equitable access to essential health services and conditions for everyone, everywhere.