"Beyond GPS: Exploring NavIC and Other Global Navigation Systems"

 

Gone are the days of maps and compasses; global positioning system or GPS has now become synonymous with the navigation process, cab-hailing applications, and much more. While GPS is an American technology, Russia, China, and Europe have their own GPS equivalents. But did you know that India has also developed an indigenous GPS known as NavIC? Here's a detailed report by our senior correspondent Sidhant MP.

Originally a military technology, satellite-based global positioning system was first developed for the US military in the 1970s. From the 80s onwards, GPS has been available for civilian users worldwide. Soon, anyone with a GPS receiver or compatible device will be able to access GPS signals from satellites. GPS helps identify the exact location of the receiver on the earth. America's ability to turn off GPS support or reduce GPS accuracy has prompted countries to have their own navigation systems.

During the 1999 India-Pakistan War, the United States refused to provide GPS support to India. That was when the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System took birth, now known as NavIC, which stands for Navigation with Indian Constellation. It depends on a fleet of seven satellites and offers coverage within India and 1500 km beyond the Indian landmass. NavIC offers services for both civilian and military purposes.

The need for NavIC to offer global coverage is in line with India's role, especially with its warships and aircraft undertaking operations far beyond Indian shores. Currently, NavIC with the 7-satellite constellation provides coverage up to 1500 kilometers beyond the Indian boundary. However, for strategic assets to be operated beyond that range, an assured signal of that class is required, which necessitates expansion. India is evaluating the expansion of NavIC to cater to various capabilities, including maritime use, airline use, personal travel use, among others.

Over the years, other nations have developed their own alternatives to GPS. The Russian version is GLONASS, the European version is called Galileo, and the Chinese have Beidou. Each system boasts a fleet of over 24 satellites that offer global coverage.