Watch LIVE: Isro gears up to launch NVS-03 satellite aboard GSLV-F18 shortly

Isro is set to launch the NVS-03 navigation satellite aboard GSLV-F18 at 11:51 pm on October 30. Here's when and where to watch the launch live and why the mission matters for NavIC.Isro's GSLV F-18 rocket is seen on the lauch pad. (Photo: Isro)New Delhi,Oct 30, 2026 23:00 ISTThe Indian Space Research Organisation, or Isro, is set to launch its next-generation navigation satellite, NVS-03, aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket at 11:51 pm IST on Friday, October 30.The launch will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, and will strengthen India's homegrown navigation system, NavIC.WATCH ISRO'S GSLV-F18 NVS-03 LAUNCH LIVE HERE: WHEN AND WHERE IS ISRO LAUNCHING NVS-03?The GSLV-F18 rocket is scheduled to lift off at 11:51 pm IST on October 30 from the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota, marking the 20th flight of India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).The three-stage rocket, standing nearly 50 metres tall, will carry the approximately 2,250-kg NVS-03 satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). From there, the satellite will use its onboard propulsion system to raise its orbit and reach its designated position. A view of the GSLV-F18 rocket on the launch pad. (Photo: Isro) WHY IS THE NVS-03 SATELLITE IMPORTANT?NVS-03 is the third satellite in Isro's second-generation NavIC series. India's regional navigation system provides positioning and timing services across the country and up to 1,500 km beyond its borders. It supports applications such as transport, maritime navigation and strategic operations.The satellite carries an indigenous atomic clock, alongside procured clocks, and will introduce the L1 navigation signal in addition to the existing L5 and S-band signals.This is expected to improve NavIC's capabilities and compatibility with navigation receivers.The launch also follows a setback involving its predecessor, NVS-02.Although the satellite was placed in an initial transfer orbit in January 2025, a propulsion-system issue prevented it from reaching its intended orbit.For NVS-03, Isro has made changes to the activation of the satellite's propulsion valves to avoid a repeat of the problem.Once separated from the rocket, NVS-03 will have to complete its orbit-raising manoeuvres before it can be tested and commissioned for operational services.- Ends