India’s space program reached a significant milestone with the successful launch of its 100th space mission on January 28, 2025. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) launched the NVS-02 navigation satellite aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The NVS-02 is a part of the NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) which covers the Indian subcontinent.
The NVS-02 satellite represents the second satellite in the next-generation NavIC satellite series. The NVS series incorporates advanced technologies and design improvements, leading to enhanced accuracy, signal reliability, and resistance to interference. Unlike other navigation systems, which generally operate in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), NavIC operates in Geostationary Orbit (GEO). The stable position of these satellites works well when covering a specific region rather than the whole world.
Five satellites total, NVS 02 being the second, have and will be built in the near-term future with other satellites possible. The NVS-02 launch is a major step forward for India’s NavIC navigation system. This milestone highlights India’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to self-reliance in critical navigation infrastructure. Ultimately, NVS-02 strengthens India’s position in the global space community and contributes to national development across various sectors, from transportation and disaster management to agriculture and defense.
Carter Palmer has long held a keen interest in military matters and aviation. As a FI's space systems analyst he is responsible for updating the reports and analyses within the Space Systems Forecast – Launch Vehicles & Manned Platforms and Space Systems Forecast – Satellites & Spacecraft products.
