India to strengthen NavIC system: GSLV-F18 launched with NVS-03 satellite

NEW DELHI: India launched its next-generation navigation satellite, NVS-03, aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F18) to strengthen the country's indigenous navigation system. The launch took place at 11.51 pm from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

'GSLV-F18, carrying NVS-03, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota,' ISRO said in a post on X.

NVS-03 is the third satellite in the second-generation NVS series. It aims to enhance NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation), India’s indigenous GPS-like system, and ensure that navigation services continue without interruption.

The new satellite promises more accurate signals even in cities with tall buildings and heavy congestion. Apps such as Google Maps, online cab services and delivery platforms are expected to work with greater precision. The transponders on NVS-03 are designed to deliver a new L1 frequency signal, which is compatible with the radio frequency used in ordinary smartphones. This is also expected to help bring down the manufacturing cost of phones.

Key highlights

1. NVS-03 belongs to the second generation of India-built NavIC satellites. It has a mission life of 12 years and weighs 2,232 kg. Unlike the first-generation satellites, which relied on foreign-made atomic clocks, this one uses an atomic clock developed at the Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
2. A navigation system of this kind needs at least four satellites working at the same time. Two satellites have stopped functioning after completing their service life, leaving NavIC services under strain. NVS-03 is being launched on an urgent basis to address the gap.
3. The Centre had directed ISRO to postpone the uncrewed Gaganyaan mission and launch the NavIC satellite at the earliest. NVS-04 and NVS-05 will also be launched soon for the same purpose.