Why is the Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? (150 words)
The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), also known as NavIC, is a regional navigation system developed by India to provide accurate position, navigation, and timing services over India and its neighboring areas. Here are the reasons why IRNSS is needed and how it helps in navigation:
Why is IRNSS needed?
- Independence: IRNSS provides India with an independent navigation system, reducing the country’s dependence on other countries’ navigation systems such as the Global Positioning System (GPS).
- Security: Access to foreign government-controlled global navigation satellite systems is not guaranteed in hostile situations. IRNSS provides India with a secure navigation system during such situations.
- Military: The Indian military can use IRNSS for accurate targeting and positioning, making it useful for cavalry attacks and firing weapons with high precision.
How does IRNSS help in navigation?
- Accuracy: IRNSS provides precise position data service to users located in India and its surrounding areas, with an accuracy of better than 20 meters during all weather conditions.
- Services: IRNSS provides two types of services: Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and Restricted Service (RS) on dual frequencies in L5 and S band.
- Coverage: IRNSS provides navigation solutions anywhere within India and a region extending about 1500 km around India. It also covers the Indian Ocean, making it useful for ships navigating in these waters.
- Air traffic control: IRNSS helps air traffic control and pilots to fly and land aircraft in bad weather conditions.
Overall, IRNSS is needed as it provides India with an independent and secure navigation system, which is useful for military and civilian purposes. IRNSS helps in navigation by providing accurate and precise position data services, two types of services, and coverage over India and its surrounding areas.
