On my ll May 29, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is set to launch the ‘NVS-01’ navigation satellite using their Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The primary objective of this mission is to deploy the 2,232 kg NVS-01 satellite into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). ISRO, headquartered in Bengaluru, has officially announced that the GSLV-F12/NVS-01 mission is scheduled for Monday, May 29 at 10:42 am IST. The launch will take place from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Following the launch, a series of orbit raising maneuvers will be carried out to position the NVS-01 satellite in its designated orbit. This satellite is the first of the second-generation satellites envisioned for navigation within the Indian Constellation (NavIC) services. NavIC is India’s own indigenous satellite navigation system, analogous to the renowned Global Positioning System (GPS) owned by the United States.

ISRO has stated that the NVS series of satellites will not only maintain but also enhance the capabilities of the NavIC system by incorporating advanced features. In order to expand the range of services offered, the NVS-01 satellite will feature the inclusion of the L1 band signal. Notably, this mission marks the first time an indigenous atomic clock will be flown in an NVS satellite.

The successful deployment of the NVS-01 satellite will be a significant milestone for India’s space exploration and navigation capabilities. It will strengthen the country’s self-reliance in satellite navigation and contribute to various sectors including transportation, disaster management, agriculture, and telecommunications. ISRO’s continued efforts to develop and expand its indigenous navigation system will provide India with greater autonomy in the field of space technology while bolstering its position as a leading space-faring nation.