The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently launched the NVS-02 navigation satellite aboard its Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This mission, marking the 100th launch from the facility, was poised to enhance India’s navigation infrastructure. However, post-launch developments have presented significant challenges.
After a successful liftoff, the GSLV placed NVS-02 into a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). In standard operations, the satellite’s onboard propulsion system would then perform maneuvers to achieve a circular geostationary orbit approximately 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometers) above Earth. Unfortunately, a malfunction in the propulsion system—specifically, the failure of certain valves to open—prevented these critical engine burns.
ISRO has confirmed that, despite the propulsion issue, the satellite remains in a stable elliptical orbit, and all other systems are functioning optimally. The organization is currently evaluating alternative mission strategies, which may involve utilizing the satellite’s smaller attitude control thrusters to adjust its orbit. This approach aims to raise the perigee, thereby mitigating the risk of atmospheric drag and potential deorbiting.
This incident highlights the inherent complexities and risks associated with space missions. While the launch vehicle executed its role flawlessly, the subsequent phase revealed vulnerabilities in the satellite’s propulsion system. ISRO’s engineering teams are conducting thorough analyses to identify the root cause of the malfunction and to formulate corrective measures.
The NVS-02 satellite was designed to bolster India’s navigation capabilities, offering vital data for sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and disaster management. The current setback underscores the necessity for rigorous testing and contingency planning in spacecraft design and mission execution.
As ISRO addresses this challenge, the global space community observes with interest, acknowledging that such obstacles are integral to the advancement of space exploration. The organization’s handling of this situation will not only impact the future trajectory of India’s navigation satellite initiatives but also provide valuable insights for the broader aerospace sector.
