ISRO's 100th Mission Hits Snag: NVS-02 Satellite Stranded in Elliptical Orbit

India's space ambitions faced a setback as ISRO's NVS-02 navigation satellite, launched on January 29, 2025, failed to reach its intended orbit. The satellite's thrusters malfunctioned due to a valve issue, preventing crucial orbit-raising maneuvers. Despite successful solar panel deployment and ground station communication, NVS-02 remains in an elliptical orbit. ISRO is exploring alternative strategies to utilize the satellite for navigation purposes. This glitch poses challenges for India's NavIC system, designed to provide accurate positioning services across the region. ISRO remains committed to finding a solution for this unexpected hurdle in its space program.
Source: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)