Indian Space Research Organisation Identifies NVS-02 Failure Cause

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released the findings of its Apex Committee investigation into the failed orbit-raising of the NVS-02 navigation satellite, launched in January 2025.

Although the GSLV-F15 successfully placed NVS-02 into its intended transfer orbit, the spacecraft was unable to reach its final circular orbit.

Telemetry and simulations revealed that the drive signal failed to reach the pyro valve in the oxidizer line of the main engine. The committee concluded that disengaged contacts in both the primary and redundant electrical connector paths likely broke the circuit, preventing engine ignition.

ISRO has since implemented corrective measures to improve pyro system redundancy and reliability. These changes were successfully validated during the CMS-03 mission, launched aboard LVM-3 M5 in November 2025, where the satellite was placed into its intended orbit.

The NVS-02 failure adds pressure on India’s regional navigation system, NavIC, which currently has only four operational satellites — IRNSS-1B, IRNSS-1F, IRNSS-1I, and NVS-01. With IRNSS-1F already suffering atomic clock failures, any further loss could reduce coverage below critical levels. At least seven satellites are required to ensure consistent, high-precision 3D positioning across India.

Meanwhile, ISRO marked progress in its human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. Tracking infrastructure developed with Australia’s Nova Systems has arrived at Site 5 on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands