General Awareness ยท Physics
Indian Observatories and Astronomy
2,231 Questions
Indian observatories and astronomy questions cover national research institutions, space telescopes, radio telescopes, and historic astronomical events. These facts are highly relevant for the general awareness section of UPSC and state PSC exams. Solve these questions to memorize key observatories and their specific functions.
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Indian Observatories and Astronomy Questions
When did Indian astronomers first begin studying asteroids?
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18th century
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19th century
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20th century
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21st century
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Indian astronomers began studying asteroids in the 19th century, with the first recorded observations being made in 1854.
Which Indian observatory played a significant role in the discovery and study of asteroids?
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Udaipur Solar Observatory
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Vainu Bappu Observatory
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Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope
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Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences
B
Correct answer
Explanation
The Vainu Bappu Observatory, located in Kavalur, Tamil Nadu, played a significant role in the discovery and study of asteroids by Indian astronomers.
How many asteroids have been discovered by Indian astronomers?
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Over 100
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Over 500
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Over 1000
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Over 2000
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Indian astronomers have discovered over 1000 asteroids, contributing significantly to the global knowledge of these celestial objects.
How many Indian astronomers have received the prestigious Padma Shri award for their contributions to astronomy?
C
Correct answer
Explanation
15 Indian astronomers have received the prestigious Padma Shri award for their contributions to astronomy.
What is the name of the Indian astronomical society that promotes the study of astronomy and space science?
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Astronomical Society of India
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Indian Astronomical Society
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Society for Astronomical Sciences
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Indian Society for Astronomy and Astrophysics
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The Astronomical Society of India is the premier astronomical society in India that promotes the study of astronomy and space science.
Which of the following is the oldest astronomical observatory in India?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Aryabhata Observatory
C
Correct answer
Explanation
The Ujjain Observatory, also known as the Vedhshala, is the oldest astronomical observatory in India. It was built in the 5th century BC by the astronomer Varahamihira.
Which of the following observatories was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Aryabhata Observatory
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is a collection of 19 astronomical instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century.
Which of the following observatories is located in Varanasi?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Aryabhata Observatory
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Aryabhata Observatory is located in Varanasi and was established in 1954.
Which of the following observatories is located in Hyderabad?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Osmania University Observatory
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Osmania University Observatory is located in Hyderabad and was established in 1965.
Which of the following observatories is located in Kodaikanal?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is located in Kodaikanal and was established in 1899.
Which of the following observatories is located in Nainital?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Aryabhata Research Institute of Observational Sciences
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Aryabhata Research Institute of Observational Sciences is located in Nainital and was established in 1954.
Which of the following observatories is located in Pune?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope is located in Pune and was established in 1990.
Which of the following observatories is located in Jodhpur?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Physical Research Laboratory
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Physical Research Laboratory is located in Jodhpur and was established in 1947.
Which of the following observatories is located in Bangalore?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Vainu Bappu Observatory
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Vainu Bappu Observatory is located in Bangalore and was established in 1968.
Which of the following observatories is located in Mumbai?
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Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
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Nalanda University Observatory
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Ujjain Observatory
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Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research is located in Mumbai and was established in 1945.