With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements :
1. IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits.
2. IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders.
3. India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A
1 only
B
1 and 2 only
C
2 and 3 only
D
None
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
1. Statement 1 is correct. The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), operational name NavIC, comprises a constellation of seven active satellites. Three of these satellites are placed in geostationary orbits (GEO) and the remaining four are placed in inclined geosynchronous orbits (GSO).
2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The IRNSS system is designed to provide service covering the entire Indian landmass and an area extending approximately 1500 km beyond its borders, not 5500 sq. km.
3. Statement 3 is incorrect. IRNSS (NavIC) is a regional system, specifically designed for India and its neighborhood. It does not provide full global coverage. There were no plans for India to achieve global coverage with its own satellite navigation system by mid-2019.