ISRO is set to celebrate a major milestone as it prepares for its 100th rocket launch. On January 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the GSLV-F15 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This launch will carry the NVS-02 navigation satellite, marking a significant achievement in India's space journey.
100th Launch from Sriharikota
The GSLV-F15 will lift off at 6:23 am from the second launch pad. This launch holds particular significance as it will be the 100th from Sriharikota. The first major rocket to lift off from the spaceport was the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) on August 10, 1979. Since then, ISRO has made great strides in space technology, and this launch reflects its continued progress.
GSLV-F15: A Special Milestone
The GSLV-F15 is a special rocket in many ways. It is the 17th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and the 11th to feature an indigenous cryogenic stage. This cryogenic stage plays a crucial role in the rocket's ability to carry heavier payloads into space. The GSLV-F15 will carry the NVS-02 satellite to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, which is an important step for India’s navigation capabilities.
The NVS-02 Satellite: A Key Part of NavIC
The NVS-02 satellite is part of India’s second-generation Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system. This satellite will provide accurate Position, Velocity, and Timing (PVT) services not just in India but also in regions up to 1,500 km beyond the country’s borders. The NVS-02 features new advancements, including support for the L1 frequency band, which will improve the reliability and service quality of NavIC.
Enhancing India's Navigation System
The NVS-02 satellite is designed with the I-2K bus platform and has a lift-off mass of 2,250 kg. It will offer enhanced navigation services across L1, L5, and S bands, with additional ranging capabilities in the C-band. Positioned at 111.75 degrees E, it will replace the IRNSS-1E satellite. NavIC’s Standard Positioning Service (SPS) provides position accuracy within 20 meters, offering users highly reliable services.
With this 100th launch, ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technology, paving the way for future innovations in India’s space programs.