NVS-03 Satellite

Introduction

• Latest News: ISRO launched NVS-03, its third new-generation navigation satellite into orbit using the GSLV-F18 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
• Importance of the Launch: The importance of the launch cannot be overemphasized: NavIC, India’s regional satellite navigation system, was not able to provide position-finding services because of multiple atomic clock malfunctions and unsuccessful attempts at replacing failed satellites.
• Objective: The goal of NVS-03 is to bring back the minimum number of operational satellites that NavIC requires in order to operate.

What Is NavIC?

• Full Form: NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is the official name of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).
• Satellite Constellation: The seven satellite constellation covers India and a distance of 1500 kilometers outside of India. This is a similar concept to the United States’ GPS system; however, it is regional instead of being a global system.
• Accuracy: It provides the public with a level of accuracy of approximately 10 meters, as long as each of its satellites is operational. Additionally, there will be an even higher level of accuracy available to authorized users, such as those within the military, which is about ten times more accurate than the public version.

Applications of NavIC

• Civilian Navigation: Civilian navigation, transportation, disaster management, telecommunications, financial clock synchronisation, and real-time tracking of approximately 12,000 trains (with 8,700 currently equipped).
• Better Regional Coverage: Compared to the GPS signals arriving at an angle into India, the NavIC system provides improved regional coverage over the Indian terrain (i.e. valleys, forests).

Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. With reference to NavIC, consider the following statements:

1. The name “NavIC” is an acronym for the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System.
2. It provides regional navigation coverage rather than global coverage.
3. After the Kargil War, the development of this system began with a goal of reducing reliance upon foreign navigation systems.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

 Explanation:

• All three statements are correct.
• The NavIC (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) is an Indian-developed, local navigation system that was created after the Kargil War so India could have its own independent regional navigation service.

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