ISRO to Launch Navigation Satellite NVS-03 on Friday, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• ISRO is set to launch the NVS-03 navigation satellite on October 30 from Sriharikota.
• NVS-03 is the third satellite in the second-generation NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) series, aimed at ensuring continuity of navigation services for the IRNSS series.
• The satellite will carry an indigenous atomic clock and introduce signals in the L1 frequency band.
• It is designed to offer coverage over the entire Indian landmass and extend up to 1500 km beyond its borders.
• The launch will be conducted using the GSLV-F18 vehicle, placing the satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

Navic Series.jpg

Detailed Insights:

• The launch of NVS-03 is critical for restoring and strengthening India's indigenous navigation system, NavIC, following a shortage of operational satellites.
• Weighing approximately 2,250 kg, NVS-03 marks the 20th flight of the GSLV-F18 rocket.
• The inclusion of an indigenous Rubidium atomic clock, developed by the Space Applications Centre (SAC) in Ahmedabad, addresses past failures of imported clocks in earlier IRNSS satellites.
• By broadcasting in the L1, L5, and S bands, the L1 band will enhance compatibility with modern commercial platforms such as smartphones and smartwatches.
• The NavIC system provides both Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian users and Restricted Service (RS) for authorized users, covering India and a region extending 1,500 km around it.
• A previous launch attempt for NVS-02 in January 2025 failed during orbit raising operations due to a propulsion system issue, making the successful deployment of NVS-03 crucial.
• The NVS series satellites are designed with an upgraded mission life of 12 years, aiming for enhanced reliability and longevity compared to the first-generation IRNSS satellites.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation): India's autonomous regional satellite navigation system providing accurate positioning, velocity, and timing services.
• Indigenous Atomic Clock: A highly precise timekeeping device developed in India, essential for accurate navigation signals and reducing reliance on foreign technology.
• Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO): An elliptical orbit used as an intermediate step to place satellites into a circular geosynchronous or geostationary orbit.
• GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle): ISRO's launch vehicle primarily used for placing communication and navigation satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.