The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is set to conduct a significant night-time launch of its next-generation navigation satellite, NVS-03, aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F18). The launch is scheduled for 11:51 pm on Friday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, with the 24-hour countdown already underway. This mission marks the 20th flight of the GSLV, which will place NVS-03 into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).

While the successful launch and separation of the satellite is a critical milestone, the real challenge lies in the subsequent orbit-raising manoeuvres that NVS-03 must perform to reach its designated operational orbit. The mission’s success will not only depend on the GSLV-F18’s lift-off but also on the satellite’s ability to execute these crucial manoeuvres accurately.

The GSLV will initially inject NVS-03 into an elliptical transfer orbit. Following this, the satellite’s onboard propulsion system will need to adjust and elevate its orbit to reach the required geosynchronous position.

Importance of the Final Orbit Manoeuvre

The satellite’s onboard Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) is essential for this process. By firing at the correct moment in its orbit, the engine will facilitate the necessary adjustments to the satellite’s trajectory. This aspect is particularly significant, as a successful rocket launch does not guarantee a successful satellite mission. The satellite must effectively utilise its propulsion system and execute the planned orbital manoeuvres to stabilise itself in the designated orbit.

Isro has previously encountered challenges during this critical phase. In January 2025, the NVS-02 navigation satellite was successfully launched aboard GSLV-F15 and placed into GTO. However, it failed to reach its intended geostationary orbit due to an issue with its propulsion system, which was unable to perform the required orbit-raising manoeuvres. An investigation revealed that a failure in the electrical drive signal prevented the pyrotechnic valve from activating the oxidiser flow to the engine, leaving the satellite stranded.

To mitigate such risks for NVS-03, Isro has implemented a notable change in its operational procedures. The pyrotechnic valves for NVS-03 will be activated and open prior to launch, a departure from previous practices. This adjustment aims to prevent a recurrence of the electrical activation issue that impacted NVS-02. This modification reflects the lessons learned from past missions and demonstrates Isro’s commitment to improving its satellite operations.

Role of NVS-03 in India’s Navigation Infrastructure

NVS-03 is the third satellite in Isro’s next-generation navigation satellite series, which is designed to ensure the continuity of services under the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC). The satellite features an indigenous atomic clock alongside procured atomic clocks and will introduce the L1 frequency signal in addition to the existing L5 and S-band signals, thereby enhancing compatibility with navigation receivers.

NavIC is intended to provide positioning, navigation, and timing services across India’s landmass and extend approximately 1,500 km beyond its geopolitical boundaries. The addition of NVS-03 is crucial, especially considering the ageing satellites and limitations within the current constellation, as it bolsters India’s independent navigation capabilities.

Tonight’s mission will be assessed not only on the successful lift-off of GSLV-F18 but also on whether NVS-03 can successfully complete all critical orbital manoeuvres and achieve its designated orbit. For Isro, avoiding a repeat of the NVS-02 experience will be a significant test of this mission’s success.

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