ISRO begins 24-hour countdown for GSLV-F18 to launch 2,232 kg NVS-03 satellite
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Space technology and navigation systems: a key GS3 topic on indigenous technology and strategic autonomy.
Why in news
ISRO initiated a 24-hour countdown for the GSLV-F18 rocket to launch the NVS-03 satellite to strengthen the NavIC system.
Background
The GSLV-F18 is a 420-tonne, three-stage rocket designed to deploy a 2,232 kg NVS-03 satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The mission utilizes an unprecedented engineering configuration using open pyrotechnic valves to prevent connector failures experienced in the previous NVS-02 mission.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TGSLV-F18: A three-stage rocket with a lift-off mass of 420 tonnes.
- FactNVS-03 satellite weight: 2,232 kg.
- FactTarget Orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) with an apogee of 37,023 km and perigee of 170 km at 20.75 degrees inclination.
- S&TNavIC: Navigation with Indian Constellation system which NVS-03 supports.
- PlaceSDSC-SHAR: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, the launch site for the mission.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the NVS-03 satellite mission, consider the following statements:
- The GSLV-F18 is a two-stage rocket designed for low earth orbit deployment.
- The mission utilizes open pyrotechnic valves to prevent connector failures.
- The NVS-03 satellite is being launched to strengthen the NavIC system.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The GSLV-F18 is a three-stage rocket designed for Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of India's indigenous navigation systems like NavIC in ensuring regional sovereignty and technological self-reliance.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Strategic Autonomy: Reducing dependence on foreign GPS/GLONASS for critical infrastructure and defense.
- Technological Integration: Compatibility of L1 band signals with civilian smartphone chipsets and wearable devices.
- Engineering Resilience: Addressing hardware failures through redundant systems and innovative pyrotechnic valve configurations.
Keywords: NavIC · Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit · Space Applications Centre · Strategic Autonomy · Indigenous Technology
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.