ISRO’s NVS-02 Satellite Faces Orbit Raising Challenges

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently encountered a setback with the NVS-02 satellite. Launched on January 29, 2025, this marked ISRO’s 100th launch. The satellite was intended to be positioned in a designated orbital slot. However, a valve malfunction prevented the necessary orbit raising operations.

Launch Details

The NVS-02 satellite was launched from Sriharikota.

It is the second satellite in the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NVS) series.

The launch was executed with high precision, and all vehicle stages performed flawlessly.

The satellite was successfully injected into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

Current Status of NVS-02

Currently, the NVS-02 satellite remains in an elliptical orbit. The satellite’s systems are reported to be healthy. Communication with ground stations has been established. Solar panels on the satellite have been deployed and are generating power nominally.

Technical Glitch

The orbit raising operations could not proceed due to a malfunction in the valves. These valves are crucial for admitting the oxidiser needed to fire the thrusters. The failure to open these valves halted the planned manoeuvres.

Alternate Mission Strategies

ISRO is now working on alternative strategies to utilise the satellite while it remains in an elliptical orbit. This may involve adjusting the satellite’s operational parameters to ensure it can still provide navigation services.

NVS-02 Capabilities

The NVS-02 satellite is equipped with advanced navigation payloads operating in L1, L5, and S bands.

It also includes a ranging payload in C-band.

Like its predecessor, NVS-01, it utilises a combination of indigenous and procured atomic clocks for precise time estimation.

Replacement of IRNSS-1E

Once operational, NVS-02 will replace the IRNSS-1E satellite. It is set to be positioned at 111.75ºE. This transition is part of ISRO’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Indian satellite navigation system.