NVS-02 navigation satellite encounters technical issue

New Delhi

ISRO's NVS-02 navigation satellite, launched on January 29, has encountered a technical issue after being successfully placed in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The satellite, launched aboard the GSLV rocket from Sriharikota, marked the 100th launch from the site and the 17th GSLV mission. Initially, the launch and orbit insertion were successful, with all vehicle stages performing flawlessly. The satellite's solar panels deployed, power generation began, and communication was established with the ground station.

However, a problem arose during the orbit-raising operations. ISRO reported that the valves required to admit the oxidizer for thruster firing did not open, preventing the satellite from reaching its designated position. Despite this, ISRO assured that the satellite's systems remain healthy, and it is currently in an elliptical orbit.

ISRO is now exploring alternative strategies to utilize the satellite in this orbit, though the mission’s full potential may be compromised if the satellite cannot reach its intended geostationary orbit (GEO). Radha Krishna Kavuluru, a former ISRO scientist, highlighted that if the satellite cannot achieve GEO, it may face orbital decay due to space atmospheric drag. The NVS-02 is part of India’s NavIC system, designed to offer accurate navigation services to India and surrounding regions.