ISRO successfully tests PSLV’s PS3 stage on ground:Design changes made; last two missions failed at this stage

ISRO has successfully completed the ground test of the third stage (PS3) of its PSLV rocket. This is the same stage that developed problems during the last two missions. ISRO completely redesigned and strengthened the stage before testing it, and the test was successful. The test was conducted at the Static Test Facility of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh. The rocket engine was secured to the ground, fired and tested. The way is now clear for the PSLV’s return. The test is significant because problems emerged in the third stage during the PSLV-C61/EOS-09 and PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 missions. After this, ISRO examined and improved the entire stage from scratch and has now tested the new version. NVS-03 launched for NavIC Earlier, on 31 October, ISRO launched the next-generation navigation satellite NVS-03 aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO’s next-generation navigation satellite series. The series aims to ensure the continuity of navigation services under the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). NVS-03 is equipped with an indigenous atomic clock as well as procured atomic clocks. In addition to the existing L5 and S-band signals, it also carries an L1 navigation signal. This will expand NavIC’s capabilities. According to ISRO, the system has been designed to provide coverage over India and an area extending 1,500 kilometres beyond its geographical boundary. The launch is expected to strengthen India’s indigenous navigation system, NavIC, and enhance the country’s independent satellite-based navigation capabilities.