Isro Launches NVS-03 Satellite to Restore NavIC Network

India's NavIC navigation network is back to four operational satellites following a successful launch by the Indian Space Research Organisation. The GSLV rocket carried the NVS-03 satellite into orbit on Friday.

Mission Launch Details

The 50-metre-tall GSLV rocket lifted off at 11.51 pm from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre after a 24-hour countdown. The flight lasted about 18 minutes and included the successful performance of all three stages, including the cryogenic upper stage. The primary payload separated and entered a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit with a planned perigee of 170 km and an apogee of 37,023 km.

Satellite Features

The 2,232 kg NVS-03 satellite features indigenous and procured atomic clocks, including an indigenous Rubidium atomic clock. It will transmit signals in the L1, L5, and S bands. The satellite will use onboard propulsion to reach its final Geosynchronous slot at 32.5 degrees East, with Isro flying it with pyrotechnic valves already open as a safety measure. Isro chief V Narayanan stated that the mission was accomplished with a turnaround time of 56 days between successive GSLV missions.

Uses and Reactions

The satellite supports civilian applications like real-time tracking of trains, vehicles, and shipping vessels, and plays a role in the 'one nation, one time' project. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh congratulated the team on social media, noting the achievement reflects India's space prowess.

Context

NavIC serves as India's regional satellite navigation system, functioning similarly to GPS within the country and extending 1,500 kilometres beyond its borders. The addition of NVS-03 helps restore Position, Navigation, and Timing services to their minimum operational configuration of four satellites.