ISRO has successfully launched the next-generation NVS-03 navigation satellite aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket from Sriharikota. The mission aims to strengthen India's indigenous NavIC system and improve the availability of domestic navigation services
ISRO successfully launched the NVS-03 navigation satellite aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The satellite was placed into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit to strengthen India's indigenous Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system.
Sriharikota: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched its next-generation navigation satellite, NVS-03, aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket, marking another step towards strengthening India's independent satellite navigation system, NavIC.
The rocket lifted off at 11.51 pm on Friday from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
More than 20 minutes after liftoff, the GSLV rocket successfully placed the NVS-03 satellite into its intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The satellite weighs approximately 2,250 kg.
The mission marks the 20th flight of India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
NVS-03 Satellite Mission to Strengthen India's NavIC Network
NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO's second-generation navigation satellite series. Its primary objective is to ensure continuity of navigation services through India's satellite constellation and improve their availability.
The mission is expected to strengthen India's independent capabilities in positioning, navigation and timing. These services are increasingly important for civilian, commercial and strategic applications.
What Is NavIC and How Does It Benefit India?
NavIC, or Navigation with Indian Constellation, is India's indigenous satellite navigation system developed as a domestic alternative to navigation services such as the United States' GPS.
The system is designed to provide positioning and timing services across India's mainland and up to approximately 1,500 kilometres beyond the country's geographical boundaries.
NavIC supports several applications, including:
- Road and maritime navigation
- Disaster management and emergency response
- Precision agriculture
- Commercial and civilian navigation services
- Strategic operations of the armed forces
The addition of NVS-03 is expected to improve the continuity and availability of these services.
PM Modi Congratulates ISRO Scientists on NVS-03 Launch
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists and engineers on the successful launch of NVS-03. He described the mission as an important step towards strengthening India's indigenous satellite navigation system, NavIC.
Modi said the advanced capabilities of NVS-03 would support India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in critical technologies and help deliver improved navigation services to the public. He also praised the dedication and innovation of India's space scientists, stating that their contributions continue to make the country proud.
