Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: India
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Young innovators sometimes gain global attention for unique science and technology projects. Rifath Sharook received such attention for designing KalamSat, a very small satellite that has been described as the worlds lightest satellite. Questions on this topic test awareness of recent scientific achievements and the nationality of emerging researchers.
Given Data / Assumptions:
The question provides these core details.
Concept / Approach:
The approach is to recall media reports about KalamSat and the young student team behind it. Reports frequently emphasised that Rifath Sharook is from India and that the satellite was named in honour of former President and scientist A P J Abdul Kalam. Recognising this connection to an Indian youth innovation competition allows us to link the designer with India rather than with any other country listed.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that KalamSat was built by a team of students led by Rifath Sharook from Tamil Nadu.
Step 2: Note that the satellite was named after A P J Abdul Kalam, who served as President of India and was an aerospace scientist.
Step 3: Recognise that news articles described Rifath as an Indian school student who won a contest organised by an international organisation.
Step 4: Compare this information with the options Russia, Pakistan, Dubai and India.
Step 5: Conclude that India is the correct country associated with the designer.
Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, one can consult science news websites or newspaper archives that covered the launch and design of KalamSat. They consistently identify Rifath Sharook as an Indian student from Karur or nearby regions in Tamil Nadu. Articles also mention Indian educational institutions and competitions through which the design was selected. No credible source describes him as Russian, Pakistani or from Dubai, so India is clearly confirmed as his country.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A Russia is incorrect because although Russian launch facilities may be involved in various missions, the designer in this case is not Russian. Option B Pakistan does not match the nationality reported in coverage of KalamSat. Option C Dubai refers to a city in the United Arab Emirates and is not the nationality of Rifath Sharook. None of these options align with his actual background as described in widely available sources.
Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to focus on the international aspects of the competition and assume a foreign origin, especially if one vaguely recalls foreign agencies involvement. Another pitfall is misunderstanding option C which names a city, not a country, which should already raise doubts. Some candidates may also forget that the satellite was named KalamSat after an Indian president and scientist, a strong clue that the designer is likely from India. Connecting these hints can prevent errors.
Final Answer:
Rifath Sharook, designer of KalamSat, hails from India.
Discussion & Comments