Science TechnologySaturday, 7 November 2026·The Hindu - Science
NVS-03 and NavIC: ISRO restores India’s 4-satellite minimum navigation capability
ISRO launched the 2,250 kg NVS-03 on October 30, 2026, restoring NavIC to its minimum operational configuration of four satellites.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On October 30, 2026, ISRO launched the 2,250 kg NVS-03 from Sriharikota, and by November 5, 2026, Chairman V. Narayanan said the satellite was fully healthy after orbit-raising operations of 6,400 seconds.
Key specifics
- NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO’s next-generation NavIC series and has a mission life of 12 years.
- NavIC needs at least 4 active satellites for positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) services; NVS-03 restored the system to that minimum.
- The satellite carries an indigenously developed Rubidium atomic clock from ISRO’s Space Applications Centre, along with imported clocks.
- NVS-03 transmits on the L1, L5 and S bands, and NavIC coverage extends 1,500 km beyond India’s border.
- ISRO said 10,400 locomotives and 64,000 fishing vessels are being tracked in real time, with a target of 1 lakh fishing vessels under PM Matsya Sampada Yojana.
Exam lens
TNPSC Science and technology question: NavIC, NVS-03, 2,250 kg, 12-year mission life, 4-satellite minimum, Rubidium atomic clock, L1 band. A likely one-liner asks which satellite restored India’s standalone navigation capability.