Tags: Satellite Positioning, Satellite Navigation, ISRO, Satellite Launch, PSLV
Publication: DecanHerald.com
Publication Date: 06/02/2013

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the first operational launch vehicle of ISRO Image credit: ISRO

A technical issue has forced the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) to postpone the launch of the country’s first navigation satellite. Originally planned to takeoff on June 12, 2013, aboard the PSLV-C22 launch vehicle, the IRNSS 1A will now attempt launch on June 26, 2013. According to reports, a malfunction in one of the electro-hydraulic control actuators in the second stage of the rocket caused the delay.

The IRNSS 1A, the first in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) constellation, is intended to provide terrestrial, aerial and marine navigation services and help in disaster and fleet management across the region. The satellite has gone through all the electrical checks and is ready for propellant filling, according to IRSO. However, the anomaly in one of the electro-hydraulic control actuators in the second stage of the launch vehicle has forced the organization to defer the launch to replace the part.

ISRO plans to launch seven more IRNSS satellites to complete the first phase of the constellation, which is expected to provide standard positioning service for civilian use and restricted service.

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