Indian GPS: ISRO to launch first navigation satellite

                      The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has developed it first navigation satellite IRNSS 1A, is being prepared for a launch from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDHC) from Shriharikota on July1. The mission is prepared for launch and checks are in progress as the mission prepares in go in 72hrs. The IRNSS 1A which stands for Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System will be the countries 1st navigation system and will be joined by 6 more in future to provide navigation services in country. This launch was originally scheduled for a 12 June launch, the mission was postponed by a fortnight due to some technical anomalies. The satellite has been mounted on the Polar satellite launching vehicle (PSLV) C22. It will be the 24th PSLV space mission of the country's space organisation and will feature 6 extended solid straps on motors on the PSLV. The satellite weighing 1425 kg will have a mission life of 10 years and will provide accurate locating services for users in the country for up to 1500 km from the border. The accuracy will be less than 20m and will be used for public and restricted access as well. A minimum of 4 satellites are required for a smartphone or a vehicle to use the signals and calculate the position. ISRO will be launching the remaining 6 by 2014-2015 to build a constellation of 7 that will help users to determine their location and time exactly. With this launch India will join the list of countries having a GPs