The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has moved the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F15) to the launchpad, carrying the NVS-02 satellite. This mission is scheduled to launch on January 29, 2025, from the Second Launch Pad (SLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR in Sriharikota. The goal is to place the NVS-02 satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
This will mark the eighth operational flight of the GSLV with an indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) and the 100th launch from India's spaceport at Sriharikota.
Purpose: Designed to enhance NavIC’s services, including navigation, fleet management, precision agriculture, emergency response, and mobile device location.
Advanced Payload: Equipped with navigation payloads operating on three frequency bands (L1, L5, and S), providing improved positioning accuracy.
Atomic Clocks: Contains a Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS) for precise timekeeping.
Replacement Mission: It will replace the older NavIC satellite IRNSS-1E and occupy the 111.75°E orbital position.
Specifications: Weighs 2,250 kg, generates 3 kW power, and integrates both indigenous and imported atomic clocks.
NVS-02 features L1-band signals that ensure compatibility with global navigation satellite systems, expanding the adoption of NavIC services. The incorporation of these signals makes the system more versatile for both domestic and global users.
The NVS-02 satellite was developed and integrated at the U R Satellite Centre (URSC) with extensive validation processes:
Thermal Vacuum (Thermovac) Test: Conducted during November-December 2024, simulating the harsh conditions of space to verify its performance in extreme environments.
Dynamic Testing: Performed in December 2024 to evaluate the satellite’s structural integrity and its ability to endure the mechanical stress during launch.
These rigorous tests confirm the satellite’s readiness for deployment, ensuring reliability and durability in orbit.
NavIC is India's regional satellite navigation system aimed at providing accurate positioning, velocity, and timing information within India and up to 1,500 km beyond its borders. NVS-02 enhances the system's capabilities by introducing advanced navigation payloads, improved signal accuracy, and robust timekeeping features.
Navigation for land, air, and sea transportation
Emergency response during disasters
Precision agriculture and resource management
Fleet tracking and logistics
Enhanced location services for mobile devices
The GSLV-F15 vehicle plays a critical role in ensuring the successful deployment of NVS-02. With its indigenous cryogenic stage, it represents India’s progress in satellite launch vehicle technology.
This launch not only improves India’s navigation capabilities but also marks a milestone as the 100th launch from Sriharikota, reflecting ISRO’s consistent contributions to space exploration and satellite technology.
Conclusion
The rollout of GSLV-F15 with NVS-02 underscores ISRO’s commitment to advancing India’s space and navigation technologies. By replacing older satellites and introducing advanced features, NVS-02 is set to bolster the NavIC system, making it more efficient and globally competitive.