Science TechnologySunday, 1 November 2026·The Hindu - Science
ISRO launches NVS-03: NavIC restored to four-satellite minimum, 12-year mission life
ISRO launched NVS-03 on 30 October 2026, restoring NavIC to its minimum operational configuration of four satellites.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 30 October 2026, ISRO launched the 2,250 kg NVS-03 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, and restored NavIC to its minimum operational configuration of four satellites.
Key specifics
- NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO’s next-generation navigation series and has a mission life of 12 years.
- The satellite was injected into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) by GSLV-F18 after launch from Sriharikota.
- NavIC needs at least 4 active satellites for positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) services.
- NVS-03 carries an indigenous Rubidium atomic clock developed by ISRO’s Space Applications Centre, along with imported clocks.
- The system provides coverage over India and up to 1,500 km beyond the Indian geopolitical boundary, with L1, L5 and S-band signals.
Exam lens
TNPSC science and technology question type: satellite launch, orbit, clock technology and NavIC coverage; remember 30 October 2026, 2,250 kg, 12-year life, 4-satellite minimum and 1,500 km service area.