India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. Over the years, ISRO has designed and executed a range of missions—from satellite navigation, Earth observation, interplanetary exploration, to solar studies—that have not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also contributed to global scientific collaboration. Its cost-effective approaches and mission diversity—from Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan to Aditya-L1 and the upcoming Gaganyaan—have become case studies in innovation.

For UPSC aspirants, ISROs journey is more than current affairs—it directly intersects with the syllabus of General Studies Paper 3 (Science & Technology), provides examples for GS Paper 2 (International Relations, Governance), and can enrich perspectives in the Essay Paper, Ethics, and even Optional subjects like Geography or PSIR. In this article, we will explore detailed insights about ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Mission Overview

The Indian space program included IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite space mission as part of its ongoing focus on Navigation applications.IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite was placed in Earth to perform its mission-specific functions.

• To execute the launch of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite, the PSLV-C26 was deployed.
• Liftoff occurred at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, as per mission scheduling.
• The main aim of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite centered on the need to Regional navigation services.
• In addition to its main goal, IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite also aimed to Augment NavIC constellation.
• Official sources have listed the mission status as Extended Mission / Partially Operational (atomic clock failed earlier, still used for messaging services).

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Mission

• The scheduled launch date for IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite was October 16, 2014.
• The spacecraft was designed with an intended mission life concluding around Around October 2024 (10-year design life).

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ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Mission Technical Specifications

IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite adopted a design featuring I-1K bus, Rubidium atomic clocks, launched successfully via PSLV-C26.The mission trajectory for IRNSS-1C was designed around Geostationary Orbit (GEO), aligned with its objectives.

• The payload configuration of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite featured Navigation and ranging payloads, tailored to meet mission-specific technical requirements.
• IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite relied on L5-band, S-band to transmit navigation and system data to ground stations.
• The design and execution of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite incorporated features like Satellite navigation technology.

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IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Launch Information

• The launch of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite took place on October 16, 2014.
• PSLV-C26 served as the launch platform for IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite.
• Satish Dhawan Space Centre was the designated launch complex for this mission.

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

The mission was carried out with the involvement of ISRO.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Mission

Among ISRO’s recent efforts, IRNSS-1C earned distinction for Third satellite in NavIC constellation.The mission was designed to collect and deliver Navigation and timing data, supporting downstream applications.

• Navigation, surveying, vehicle tracking, disaster management represents one area where mission data finds regular use.
• The mission was conceptualized in line with broader policy directions, including Strengthened NavIC constellation, strategic autonomy in navigation.
• As part of a long-term roadmap, ISRO envisions further efforts related to IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite, which may include targeted missions like Further NavIC satellites for improved coverage and services.

ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

Managing Atomic clock failure was part of the broader mission operations strategy.

• Atomic clock failure was acknowledged in the mission evaluation summary of IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite.
• The resolution process for IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite included steps like Used for messaging services.
• ISRO noted Importance of robust clock systems during the post-flight analysis of IRNSS-1C.

UPSC Relevance of ISRO IRNSS-1C Navigation Satellite Space Mission

• ISRO missions are frequently asked in the UPSC Prelims examination, especially under the Science and Technology section, where candidates are expected to know key facts like launch dates, objectives, and agencies involved.
• ISROs organizational efficiency, low-cost model, and long-term planning offer useful examples for General Studies answers dealing with public institutions and governance structures.
• ISRO’s consistent success under public scrutiny and budget limitations can be used to discuss institutional discipline and public accountability.
• Students with PSIR, Sociology, or Public Administration optionals can use ISRO case studies to demonstrate state capacity, institutional success, or public sector innovation.

Past UPSC Mains PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Discuss the role of the private sector in the growth of the space industry in India. How has the governments policy of 2023 affected it? (2023, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q2. What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (2022 & 2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q3. Space has been the next big frontier for mankind after sea and land. In this context, discuss Indias policy and preparedness for space wars. (2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q4. Discuss the utility of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) for India. (2016, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q5. What do you understand by Standard Positioning Systems and Precision Positioning Systems in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Past UPSC Prelims PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1 [2025]: GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?

I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) I, II and III
(b) II and III only
(c) I only
(d) I and II only

Correct Answer: (d) I and II only

Explanation: Statements I and II correctly describe the core purpose and benefit of the GAGAN system. (I) GAGAN is designed to augment GPS signals by correcting for errors, which provides much greater accuracy and guarantees the integrity (reliability) of the positioning information. (II) This enhanced accuracy and reliability directly enables more precise aircraft routing and landing procedures, thus improving the uniformity and quality of air traffic management.

Q2 [2022]: If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Answer: The correct answer is (c).

Explanation: A major solar storm can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellite orbits, polar radio communication, and cause auroras, but cannot trigger tsunamis or forest fires.

Q3 [2020]: The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New horizons
(c) Lisa Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: The correct answer is (d) Evolved LISA.

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a planned space-based gravitational wave observatory by ESA and NASA, using three spacecraft in a triangular formation with laser beams to detect cosmic gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Mangalyaan is the informal name of Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), launched by ISRO on 5 November 2013 and India is the only nation to date to have succeeded on its maiden attempt.

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UPSC Practice Questions on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Consider the following statements:
A. National Technology Day is commemorated on May 11 every year as India successfully conducted nuclear tests in Pokhran.
B. Agni-III is India's latest long range surface-to-surface nuclear capable ballistic missile system that was successfully tested in 2018.
C. Mangalyaan was launched on 5th November, 2013 with the aim studying of the Moon's topography, morphology, mineralogy and atmosphere.
D. U.R. Rao was the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation when the first-ever Indian satellite Aryabhata was launched.
Identify the wrong statements:
1. B and C
2. A, B and D
3. A and D
4. A, C and D

Answer: 1
Solution: Statement B is incorrect because Agni-III is not India's latest long-range missile; India has developed more advanced versions like Agni-IV and Agni-V following Agni-III. Statement C is incorrect because Mangalyaan, or the Mars Orbiter Mission, was aimed at studying Mars, not the Moon. The mission to study the Moon is Chandrayaan. Statement A is correct as National Technology Day is celebrated on May 11 every year to commemorate India's successful nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998. Statement D is correct because U.R. Rao was indeed the Chairman of ISRO when the first-ever Indian satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975.

Q2. Who among the following succeeded K Sivan as the ISRO chairman, in January 2022?
1. Shailesh Nayak
2. A S Kiran Kumar
3. VK Saraswat
4. S Somanath

Answer: 4
Solution: The correct answer is S Somanath. The Appointments Committee has approved the appointment of rocket scientist S Somnath, Director Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, to the post of ISRO Chief and Chairman ISRO. S. Somnath will succeed K Sivan who completes his extended tenure on 14 Jan 2022. He has been appointed for a combined tenure of 3 years from the date of joining.

Q3. Consider the following statements about the INSAT-3DS satellite:
1. It is a communication satellite designed to bolster 6G services in the north-eastern states of India.
2. The satellite will be launched aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14, from Shriharikota.
Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2
4. None of the above

Answer: 1
Solution: Statement 1 is incorrect. ISRO to launch weather satellite INSAT-3DS. The Indian Space Research Organization announced that the satellite will be launched aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Q4. Consider the following statements about Agnibaan SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator SOrTeD:
1. Agnibaan SOrTeD is fully developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO alone, without any support from other organizations.
2. The rocket is powered by the Agnilet engine, which is notable for being the world's first 100% 3D-printed, semi-cryogenic rocket engine.
3. It has the capability of reaching an altitude of 700 km with payloads up to 100 kg and can be launched in configurations up to five different settings.
How many of the given statements are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None

Answer: 2
Solution: Statement 1 is incorrect. Chennai-based space startup Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited is set to launch its first rocket, the Agnibaan Suborbital Technology Demonstrator. AgniKul Cosmos' journey is supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation and Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is correct as the Agnilet engine is distinguished by its method of production being 100% 3D-printed. Statement 3 is also correct as Agnibaan SOrTeD is capable of carrying payloads up to 100 kg to an altitude of 700 km.

Q5. What is the main goal of India's Chandrayaan-4 mission, as announced by ISRO Chief S Somnath, which is set to launch in 2028?
1. To establish a permanent base on the Moon
2. To collect samples on the Moon
3. To explore the dark side of the Moon
4. To find water on the Moon

Answer: 2
Solution: The correct answer is to collect samples on the Moon. ISRO's Chandrayaan-4 mission is positioned as a crucial step toward India's ambitious goal to land an astronaut on the Moon by 2040.

Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the features of NISAR Satellite:
1. The S-band payload has been made by the US and the L-band by the ISRO.
2. It can completely map earth in 14-15 days and capable of monitoring the vegetation cover and snow cover.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: 2
Solution: The correct answer is 2 only. The S-band payload has been made by the ISRO and the L-band by the U.S. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

Q7. Which of the following missions will lead to India's first human presence on the International Space Station ISS?
1. Axiom-4
2. Taxsci-4
3. VenSpac-4
4. Spacoon-4

Answer: 1
Solution: The correct answer is Axiom-4. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will pilot the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station in 2025, marking India's first human presence aboard the ISS.

Q8. Consider the following statements about Vikram-S:
I. It is India's first privately built rocket.
II. It is a single stage suborbital space launch vehicle.
III. The mission for the rocket launch has been named as Prarambh, meaning beginning.
IV. It was developed by space tech startup Agnikul Cosmos.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. I, II and III only
2. I, III and IV only
3. II, III and IV only
4. All of the above

Answer: 1
Solution: The correct answer is option 1: I, II and III only. Vikram-S is India's first privately built rocket and is a single stage suborbital space launch vehicle. The mission for the rocket launch has been named as Prarambh, meaning beginning. It was not developed by Agnikul Cosmos; it was developed by a different space tech startup named Skyroot Aerospace.

Q9. Which of the following functions is not among those suggested for devolution to panchayats for enhanced local governance?
1. Rural electrification
2. Vocational education
3. Space research
4. Small-scale industries

Answer: 3
Solution: The correct answer is Space research. Space research is generally managed at the national level, typically by government agencies such as the Indian Space Research Organisation. Panchayats are primarily local self-government bodies focused on the development and administration of rural areas.

Q10. Presence of which element is confirmed by Chandrayaan-3's Pragyan Rover on the Moon surface in August 2023?
1. Phosphorus
2. Zinc
3. Sulphur
4. Oxygen

Answer: 3
Solution: The correct answer is Sulphur. Chandrayaan-3's Pragyan Rover confirmed the presence of sulphur on the Moon's south pole surface in August 2023. This discovery was made using the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy instrument onboard the Pragyan Rover.