ISRO Chairman, Scientists Visit Tirupati Temple Ahead Of 100th Launch; NVS-02 Satellite To Enhance NavIC System

Before the much-awaited launch of India's GSLV-F15/NVS-02 rocket, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman Dr V Narayanan paid a visit to the Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirumala today (28 January), praying for the mission's success.

According to HT, Dr V Narayanan, along with a group of ISRO scientists, presented a model of the rocket at the feet of the deity. The team of scientists from ISRO also conducted a unique ritual to invoke celestial favor for their forthcoming launch.

Dr Narayanan thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sanctioning Rs 400 crore for the third launch pad at ISRO, which would enable the launching of heavier rockets into space, while speaking to ANI.

He stated that the newly developed infrastructure would aid in the deployment of more substantial rockets into space.

The ISRO is on the brink of creating a historic milestone with its imminent 100th launch at Sriharikota, scheduled for tomorrow. The GSLV-F15/NVS-02, which is ferrying the NVS-02 navigation satellite, is set to lift off from the second launch pad at 6:23 AM.

The statement from ISRO highlighted that the GSLV-F15 represents the eighth operational flight of the GSLV equipped with a domestically produced Cryogenic stage.

For the first time, the GSLV-F15 features a metallic payload fairing with a diameter of 3.4 meters. The GSLV-F15, equipped with a domestically-produced Cryogenic stage, will position the NVS-02 satellite into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

The mission of GSLV-F15/NVS-02 could potentially extend this successful run, further enhancing the NavIC system with these capabilities.

NavIC is the designation for India's autonomous regional navigation satellite system, which is designed to provide precise Position, Velocity, and Timing (PVT) services to users within India and the surrounding areas.

NavIC is set to provide two distinct services: the Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and the Restricted Service (RS). According to a release, it promises a position accuracy superior to 20 m (2s) and a timing accuracy that surpasses 40 ns (2s) throughout the service area.

The NVS-01 satellite, weighing 2,232 kg, was successfully launched into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) by GSLV-F12 on 29 May 2023.

The mission of GSLV-F15/NVS-02 will mark a crucial advancement in India's ongoing efforts to enhance their navigation and satellite infrastructure.