Failure of atomic clock cripples ISRO’s NavIC system
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
ISRO announced the failure of the last atomic clock aboard the IRNSS-1F satellite, reducing the number of functioning atomic clocks in the NavIC system to three.
Background
NavIC provides navigation and timing services within India and a 1,500 km radius.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TNavIC: India's indigenous regional navigation satellite system.
- FactNavIC coverage: India and a 1,500 km radius.
- S&TRubidium clocks: Indigenously developed clocks planned for replacement satellites.
- FactIRNSS-1F: One of the satellites in the NavIC constellation launched since 2013.
For Mains
Q. Examine the strategic importance of indigenous navigation systems like NavIC for India's national security and economic sovereignty.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Strategic autonomy: Reducing dependence on foreign GPS systems during global conflicts
- Technical reliability: Addressing hardware degradation in aging satellite constellations
- Precision timing: Ensuring accuracy for critical infrastructure and disaster management
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Indigenous Technology · Navigation Systems · Satellite Constellation · Technological Sovereignty
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