ISRO Reports Successful Deployment of Satellite’s Power and Communication Systems
On January 29, 2025, ISRO achieved a historic milestone with the launch of the NVS-02 navigation satellite via the GSLV-F15 rocket, marking its 100th successful launch. However, after the satellite was placed into orbit, a technical glitch caused the stall of the orbit-raising operations intended to position the satellite in its designated geostationary orbit.
The issue occurred when the oxidizer valves failed to open, preventing the thrusters from firing and initiating the necessary propulsion for orbit raising. Despite this glitch, ISRO confirmed that the satellite’s solar panels deployed successfully, and it is generating power as expected. Communication with ground control was re-established, indicating that the satellite’s core systems remain intact.
Glitch Prevents Orbit Positioning, Engineers Explore Solutions
Although the satellite is not yet in its final geostationary orbit, it remains in an elliptical orbit. ISRO is working diligently to address the issue and explore alternate solutions for the satellite’s use in this current configuration. Engineers are considering alternate strategies to utilize NVS-02 for navigation services, even though it is not in its intended orbit.
The satellite’s functionality, including its communication systems and power generation, is operating normally. However, the failure to complete the orbit-raising procedure has led ISRO to investigate ways to optimize its performance and fulfill the satellite’s intended role in India’s navigation system.
Space Agency Optimistic About Satellite’s Role in Navigation System
ISRO’s technical team remains optimistic that the NVS-02 satellite will eventually fulfill its mission. While the orbit-raising glitch is a setback, the satellite is still operational, and its current position can still support limited services. Engineers are working around the clock to resolve the issue and ensure that the satellite reaches its final orbital position, which would enable it to provide optimal navigation and location-based services for India.
ISRO’s track record of overcoming challenges gives confidence that the satellite will eventually serve its purpose. The space agency has always been resilient in the face of technical issues, and its history of successfully addressing such challenges reassures the public that NVS-02 will contribute to India’s space and navigation infrastructure in the near future.