Technology : Information Technology (IT) And Robotics (AI)

Q 25 / 37

UPSC CSE Prelims 2016

'Project Loon', sometimes seen in the news, is related to

EXPLANATION

The correct option is (b).

Explanation

Project Loon was a research and development project initiated by X (formerly Google X), a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., aimed at providing Internet access to rural and remote areas.

Detailed Analysis:

  • The project utilized high-altitude balloons placed in the stratosphere at an altitude of approximately 18 km to 25 km to create an aerial wireless network.
  • These balloons functioned as floating cell towers, transmitting internet signals to ground stations and personal devices using LTE technology.
  • The primary objective was to extend internet connectivity to underserved populations where building ground infrastructure was difficult or economically unviable.
  • Therefore, the project is directly related to wireless communication technology.

Key Takeaway: Project Loon utilized stratospheric balloons to provide wireless internet connectivity (LTE) to remote and rural regions.

SOURCEIndian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania, Chapter 10: Indian Literature