New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday placed NVS-03,its third new-generation navigation satellite, into orbit using the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle GSLV-F18, according to an IANS report.
The mission began late on Friday when the rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 11:51 p.m. IST. ISRO announced the launch on X, stating: “GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03 lifts off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota.”
The space agency added: “Liftoff of GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03 at 11:51 PM IST from Second Launch Pad, SHAR! ISRO’s rescue mission for NavIC is now underway.”
Boost For NavIC
Weighing 2,232 kg, NVS-03 rode atop the 50-metre, three-stage GSLV-F18 rocket. Its first destination is a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, from where it will gradually raise its path to settle at a geosynchronous position 32.5 degrees East.
Once operational, the satellite will join India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation, or NavIC—often described as the country’s own version of GPS. NVS-03 is meant to add capacity to the existing constellation and keep navigation services running without interruption.
The new spacecraft carries an atomic clock developed in India, along with clocks sourced from abroad. It also introduces the L1 navigation signal, supplementing the L5 and S bands already used by the system.
ISRO said: “It also includes L1 signal in addition to existing L5/S signals with Coverage over India land mass and a region extending 1500 km around Indian geopolitical boundary.”
Wider Navigation Reach
NavIC is India’s independent regional satellite navigation network, built to deliver precise position, velocity and timing information across the country and nearby areas extending roughly 1,500 km beyond its borders.
The system offers two services: the Standard Positioning Service, meant for general civilian use, and the Restricted Service, a secured offering reserved for authorised users.
ISRO plans a total of five second-generation NVS satellites to upgrade the current NavIC fleet, improve its features and safeguard the continuity of navigation services.