Which satellite has been launched by ISRO?
On 29th May 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the NVS-01 navigation satellite. This satellite was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
This satellite will help India's navigation system be more accurate. ISRO plans to launch five such satellites in total, and NVS-01 is the first. It is a part of the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) satellites being designed to improve India's navigation capabilities.
What is NavIC?
We often use Google or Apple Maps to get from one location to another. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to deliver this service. It is a system that uses satellite signals to show the location of a person or thing on the Earth's surface. The United States government controls these satellites.
NavIC is India’s own network of satellites in orbit that communicate with numerous ground stations. This helps in providing navigation services for both Indian civilians and the armed forces.
Why was NavIC developed?
It’s always better to have our own technology rather than depend on another country’s technology. ISRO developed NavIC to serve as a GPS replacement. It was also created to improve navigation capabilities in India, especially in the aviation industry.
NavIC covers all of India and also up to 1500 kilometres beyond its borders. But NavIC's use is currently limited. One of its uses is to send emergency alerts to fishermen in places without network connectivity. It also helps to provide information about natural disasters.
While certain smartphones support NavIC, it will take time for everyone across India to use it. Let’s hope it becomes available for everyone soon.
How does satellite navigation work?
Satellite navigation systems have three parts: satellites, a receiver (such as a GPS device or smartphone), and satellite signals. These satellites always move around the Earth. They are constantly sending out signals. The receiver is linked to a GPS device, such as a smartphone, and receives satellite signals.
Each satellite sends a signal that shows its location and the time it was sent. The time it takes for satellite signals to reach the receiver is measured. After calculating the distance between itself and at least four satellites, the receiver calculates and pinpoints its location on Earth. This information is then displayed on a map.
This is how we get to know where we are on a map on our smartphones. Pretty cool, right? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
