Isro

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched IRNSS-1G, the seventh and final navigational satellite in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

Launched aboard a PSLV-C33 rocket, IRNSS-1G has completed the constellation of IRNSS satellites.

Following a 19min 42s flight, the 1,425kg IRNSS-1G was injected into an elliptical orbit inclined at an angle of 17.867° to the equator, which is very close to the intended orbit.

After reaching its elliptical orbit, the satellite got separated from PSLV’s fourth stage.

ISRO stated that in a few days, four orbit manoeuvres will be conducted from its master control facility (MCF) to position the satellite in its geostationary orbit of 129.5° East longitude.

The space agency had launched IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C, ID, IE and 1F, the first six satellites of the IRNSS constellation, in July 2013; April 2014; October 2014; last March; this January and March respectively.

"All the previously launched six satellites are now functioning from their designated orbital positions."

All the previously launched six satellites are now functioning from their designated orbital positions.

Designed to provide position information in India and 1,500km around the mainland, the IRNSS includes a constellation of seven satellites.

IRNSS provides two types of services, namely the standard positioning services (SPS), which is provided to all users, and restricted services (RS) for authorised users.

However, ISRO noted that IRNSS is currently operational with four satellites, and the remaining three satellites are needed to make it more precise and efficient, reports PTI.

With a lifespan of 12 years, the newly launched IRNSS-1G is expected to become operational in around one month.

Image: Launched aboard a PSLV-C33 rocket, IRNSS-1G has completed the constellation of satellites in IRNSS. Photo: courtesy of ISRO.