GS Question

The Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) is needed for several reasons.

Firstly, it provides an independent navigation system for India. Prior to IRNSS, India relied on foreign navigation systems like the Global Positioning System (GPS) which is owned by the United States. Having its own navigation system ensures self-reliance and reduces dependence on foreign systems.

Secondly, IRNSS enhances the accuracy and reliability of navigation services in India and the surrounding region. GPS signals can sometimes be unreliable, particularly in areas with limited signal coverage or during times of signal disruption. IRNSS complements GPS and provides more precise positioning and timing information tailored specifically for the Indian region.

Thirdly, IRNSS is designed to provide better coverage in remote and rural areas of India, where network connectivity might be limited. It aims to bridge the urban-rural divide by bringing advanced navigation services to all parts of the country, facilitating transportation, agriculture, disaster management, and various other sectors.

In terms of navigation, IRNSS operates by using a constellation of satellites in geostationary and inclined geosynchronous orbits. These satellites continuously transmit navigation signals that are received by compatible receivers on the ground. By calculating the time it takes for the signals to reach the receiver from multiple satellites, the receiver can accurately determine its location, velocity, and time. This enables users to navigate and determine precise positions, speeds, and routes for various purposes such as vehicle tracking, geodetic surveys, search and rescue operations, and mapping.

Overall, the Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System is crucial for India's autonomy in navigation, providing precise and reliable positioning services, bridging the digital divide, and bolstering various sectors dependent on accurate navigation information.