The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its latest navigation satellite, NVS-03, late Friday night, marking a significant step in enhancing the nation's indigenous satellite navigation network. The mission lifted off at 11:51 p.m. IST from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The 2,232 kg satellite was carried into space by the GSLV-F18 rocket, a 50-metre-tall, three-stage launch vehicle. ISRO confirmed the successful liftoff on social media, stating, "GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03 lifts off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota." This mission represents the 20th flight of the GSLV programme, a rocket series that has transitioned from a history of technical challenges to a record of consistent reliability.
NVS-03 is the third satellite in the second-generation NVS series designed to support the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system. The satellite is currently being deployed into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, after which it will undergo a series of orbit-raising manoeuvres to reach its designated geosynchronous slot at 32.5 degrees East.
Once operational, the satellite will provide critical positioning, navigation, and timing services. It is equipped with both indigenous and procured atomic clocks to ensure high precision. Beyond the existing L5 and S-band signals, NVS-03 will transmit a new L1 signal, extending its coverage across India and up to 1,500 kilometres beyond the country's borders. These capabilities are intended to support both civilian requirements and strategic military operations.
