Science TechnologySaturday, 7 November 2026·The Hindu - Science
ISRO’s GSLV-F18 launches NVS-03, restoring NavIC to minimum operational configuration
On 30 October 2026, ISRO’s GSLV-F18 placed the 2,250 kg NVS-03 navigation satellite into geosynchronous transfer orbit from Sriharikota.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In October 2026, ISRO launched the 2,250 kg NVS-03 satellite aboard GSLV-F18 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, and placed it into the intended geosynchronous transfer orbit in 18 minutes.
Key specifics
- NVS-03 is the third satellite in the next-generation NavIC/IRNSS series.
- The satellite carries an indigenous atomic clock and procured atomic clocks.
- It adds the L1 signal to the existing L5/S signals.
- NavIC provides PNT services over India and up to 1,500 km beyond the Indian landmass.
- The mission life of NVS-03 is 12 years, and ISRO said the launch restored NavIC to the minimum operational configuration with 4 satellites.
Exam lens
Science & technology, space navigation, mission facts, orbit and signal types: remember GSLV-F18, NVS-03, 2,250 kg, 18 minutes, 1,500 km, 12 years, and the minimum operational configuration of 4 satellites for NavIC.