From Moon nuclear plants to ancient Tamil cities: This week's breakthroughs

Recent developments span space technology, archaeology, and economic theory. In India, the LVM3 rocket continues to advance heavy-payload launches, while excavations at Keezhadi reveal ancient urban life. Meanwhile, Russia plans a nuclear power plant on the Moon, and economists revisit the concept of Dutch Disease.

India's LVM3 rocket is designed for lifting heavy satellites into geostationary (GTO) and low Earth orbits (LEO). Its cryogenic upper stage relies on the CE-20 engine, boosting efficiency for large payloads.

At **Keezhadi**, along the Vaigai River, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of an **urban settlement from the Sangam era**. The site also yielded **Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions**, offering new insights into early South Indian civilisation. Russia's space agency, through **Atomenergoexport** (a Rosatom subsidiary) and the Russian Academy of Sciences, is developing a **nuclear power plant for the Moon**. The facility aims to supply energy for **rovers and long-term lunar infrastructure**, supporting future bases. Economists define **Dutch Disease** as a condition where a **sudden influx of foreign currency** causes a nation's currency to appreciate. This often weakens the manufacturing sector, as exports become less competitive.

The LVM3's capabilities strengthen India's space ambitions, while Keezhadi's findings deepen understanding of ancient Tamil culture. Russia's lunar power project could enable sustained Moon missions. Dutch Disease, meanwhile, remains a key concern for economies facing rapid currency shifts.