ISRO Successfully Launches NVS-01 to Boost India’s GPS Alternative

                                                       Image credit: TOI

GSLV-F12 mission strengthens the indigenous NavIC navigation system
Critical upgrade to enhance India's autonomous positioning capabilities

Sriharikota | May 30, 2025:

India took a decisive step toward strengthening its space-based navigation with the successful launch of the NVS-01 satellite by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The launch took place at 10:42 AM IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, using the GSLV-F12 rocket.

                                    Image credit: ISRO

NVS-01 is the first of the second-generation satellites under the NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) system — India’s homegrown alternative to GPS. The satellite will support civilian and strategic services by enhancing location accuracy and reliability across land, sea, and air navigation.

                                    Image credit: ISRO

> “This is a landmark achievement for India’s space-based infrastructure. With NVS-01, we’re not just strengthening NavIC — we’re asserting technological self-reliance,” said ISRO Chairman S. Somanath.

                   Image credit: ISRO

“From agriculture to disaster response, precise navigation saves lives and fuels development. NavIC's improved capabilities will be a game changer,” added Dr. Radhika Menon, Space Policy Analyst.

Key Highlights:

• Satellite: NVS-01 (weighing 2,232 kg)
• Launch Vehicle: GSLV-F12
• Orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)
• Objective: Upgrade and sustain NavIC system with enhanced L1 signals for better accuracy and compatibility with global systems

Sources & Credits:
ISRO Official Press Release
Adda247 Coverage – 30 May 2025 Current Affairs
The Hindu – GSLV-F12 Launch Success
Times of India – NavIC Explained
Image Credits:
ISRO (Official Mission Photo)
PTI / The Economic Times/ The Times Of India (Launch visuals and control room)