Manage commercial vehicles with the new-age Fleet Management Software
Streamline your scattered workforce with Field Force Management Software
About Us
Get to know TrackoBit: our team, ethos, values, and vision.
Careers
Join the most dynamic cult of coders, creatives and changemakers.
Tech Support
Learn about our technical support team and services in detail.
Events
Check out the exhibitions where we left our marks and conquered.
Contact Us
Connect with us and let us know how we can be of service.
Table of Contents
ToggleHave you heard of NavIC – YES India’s very own GPS tracking system! This piece of writing is all about the Indigenous Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).
Table of Contents
Toggle
For decades, India relied on foreign navigation systems, but now we can see some changes going all around. Well, it was 2013, when India unveiled its own Indigenous Global Navigation Satellite System named NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation).
Before the basics i.e.unfolding NavIC, let’s just appreciate this monumental feat in the nation’s technological journey that is just not confined to being accurate and robust but is also a self-reliant positioning system built especially for the needs of India.
So together, let’s just dive into the details of NavIC – from its history to the future, the every in and out.
Basics first!
The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) aka NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is a group of 7 satellites developed by ISRO. This system provides a Global Positioning System (GPS) service in India. It provides real-time positioning and timing services. The system covers areas from India extending up to 1500 kms and is expected to reach more areas in the future.
NavIC consists of 7 satellites i.e. (IRNSS- 1B, IRNSS- 1D, IRNSS- 1E, IRNSS-1F, IRNSS-1G, IRNSS-1I) orbiting Earth to provide accurate positioning and timing information.
Now that we know the definitions and the constellation of satellites, let’s quickly unfold what all the systems provide us with.
Well, NavIC provides us with various services such as Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian use, Restricted Services (RS) for authorized users like defense forces, and a Search and Search and Rescue service.
A Fun Fact:- The word NavIC is derived from the Sanskrit word Navik, which means sailor or navigator.
📌Also Know About GPS: What is GPS and How Does GPS Work?
To understand how NavIC works, we have to split the working of the GNSS system into three segments – the space segment, the ground segment, and the user segment.
This part involves satellites in space. The space segment consists of a constellation with 7 satellites. From which 3 are (Geostationary) and 4 (Geosynchronous orbit).
Sounds complex? Let us explain to you briefly about geostationary and geosynchronous satellites.
Geostationary Orbit (GEO) refers to an orbit where a satellite revolves around the Earth at a rotational speed similar to Earth’s. As a result, the satellite appears to be stationary relative to a fixed point on the Earth’s surface. In NavIC, the satellites in geostationary orbit are-
Geosynchronous orbit refers to an orbit where a satellite has a period equal to the Earth’s rotational period, but these satellites do not necessarily remain fixed over one point on the equator. NavIC has satellites in geosynchronous orbits that provide coverage over the Indian subcontinent and surrounding areas. The geosynchronous satellites are-
These satellites work together to provide accurate position data, timing, and navigation services, enhancing regional navigation capabilities for civilian and military purposes.
Well, the ground segment is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and managing the satellites. It consists of components like control centers, ground stations, and a network of reference stations that play various roles-
Roles of the Control Center-
Roles of the Ground-
The design includes the receiver and antennas for capturing the IRNSS signals. The user segment consists of two receiver types-
A single-frequency IRNSS receiver that captures SPS/RS signal at L5 or S-band frequency and is capable of making ionosphere corrections.
A dual-frequency IRNSS receiver that captures SPS/RS signals at both L5 and S-band frequencies, allowing it to track multiple radio signals from different satellites with various signals.
Now that you know what exactly is NavIC and how these seven sisters of satellites work, let us tell you a story about how NavIC was developed.
Read Blog – Top 10 Navigation Apps for Android and iOS
📌Story Time –
We usually use GPS for tracking, but India made NavIC to become more independent with their satellite navigation. India wanted its own system because, in crucial situations, it might not always be possible to rely on systems controlled by other countries. For eg:- Back in 1999, the Indian military faced challenges while seeking GPS data during the Kargil conflict with Pakistani troops. The US government’s refusal to grant access to its space-based navigation system highlighted the necessity for India to have its own indigenous satellite navigation system. Following this incident, the Indian government decided in May 2006 to develop its navigation system, reducing its dependency on foreign systems such as GPS or GLONASS. The establishment of NavIC by the Indian Space Research Organisation has provided India with enhanced control over its navigation and timing data, crucial for national security and data integrity. Also, it not only helps improve navigation, disaster response, and farming but also encourages new ideas and technological growth within the country. |
IRNSS aka NavIC, GPS, and GLONASS are all satellite-based navigation systems, but they have key differences in terms of their origin, coverage, and capabilities.
Discussing GPS vs NavIC is something we’ll unfold in detail in the future.
The collaboration between ISRO’s NavIC and MapmyIndia signifies a significant step towards enhancing indigenous navigation solutions in India. This partnership aims to integrate MapmyIndia’s digital maps and navigation services with ISRO’s NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) satellite-based navigation system.
Some of the key aspects that we can see with this collaboration are as follows-
MapmyIndia has already integrated its digital mapping services with NavIC’s positioning services. This integration aims to provide precise and real-time navigation and location-based services.
NavIC is known for its high accuracy in the Indian region. By leveraging NavIC’s satellite data, MapmyIndia is expecting to enhance the accuracy of its maps and navigation services.
The collaboration promotes the use of indigenous technologies, reducing dependency on foreign systems like GPS. It also encourages the development of home-grown solutions for navigation and location-based services.
Sounds amazing right? But just like how a coin has 2 sides, similar to the GNSS system, NavIC also has some cons. Together let’s unfold them.
NavIC, India’s navigation system has been facing some significant challenges that surely have impacted its performance and adoption. Below here we have highlighted some of its significant challenges.
NavIC primarily covers India and its surrounding regions, limiting its global applicability. This makes it less competitive compared to other GNSS systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, which offer worldwide coverage.
Many existing devices and systems are designed to work with established GNSS like GPS. Integrating NavIC into these systems requires additional effort and investment, which can hinder its widespread adoption.
There is a lack of awareness about NavIC among potential users, both domestically and internationally. This results in slower adoption rates and reduced market penetration.
Maintaining and upgrading the technology infrastructure for NavIC is challenging. This includes ensuring the reliability and accuracy of satellites, ground stations, and user equipment.
Sustained funding and investment are crucial for the continuous development and maintenance of NavIC. Budget constraints can affect the quality and expansion of the system.
International cooperation and standardization are essential for GNSS systems. Geopolitical tensions can impact collaborations and the integration of NavIC with other global systems.
Satellite navigation systems, including NavIC, are affected by space weather phenomena like solar flares and ionospheric disturbances. These can degrade signal quality and accuracy.
Efficient spectrum management is critical for GNSS operations. NavIC must navigate spectrum allocation challenges to ensure its signals do not interfere with other systems and vice versa.
NavIC, or Navigation with Indian Constellation offers a range of features that provide vital services not just for India, but for the surrounding regions as well. Here’s a closer look at what makes NavIC stand out.
All in all, NavIC is a versatile system that offers a multitude of benefits for India and its surrounding regions. It will be amazing to watch how well this GNSS will grow in the future.
Recently, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) of India has mandated fitting NavIC-based AIS-140 compliant vehicle trackers in all public and commercial vehicles. This move is aimed at improving road safety, monitoring, and management of commercial vehicle operations across the country.
Wondering what’s AIS140 Compliance?
Well, here it is- AIS-140 (Automotive Industry Standard 140) is a set of standards laid down by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) for vehicle tracking systems and emergency request buttons.
NavIC, India’s GNSS system is a moment of pride for the country. Now it is high time that we show great support towards our country’s originated system “NavIC” for day-to-day positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services.
NavIC isn’t just a navigation system; it’s a symbol of India’s technological prowess. It empowers citizens, fosters innovation, and paves the way for a more secure and efficient future.
We are all excited to see NavIC in the future offering services for commercial fleet tracking. Well, whenever that happens, you will see TrackoBit‘s fleet management software running in parallel with this technology and offering 99.9% locational updates, better monitoring of driving events, and more precise data for enhanced visibility.
Know how TB can revolutionize fleet management!
NavIC 2.0 (Navigation with Indian Constellation 2.0) is the upgraded version of India's regional satellite navigation system developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It provides accurate position information services to users in India and the surrounding region. The enhancements in NavIC 2.0 include improved accuracy, extended coverage, and additional satellites to ensure better reliability and performance.
The NavIC app is a mobile application developed to leverage the NavIC satellite navigation system. It provides users with location-based services, such as real-time navigation, mapping, tracking, and geospatial information. The app aims to enhance the user experience by offering accurate and reliable positioning data, primarily for users in India and its neighboring regions.
Some of the well-known navigation systems or GNSS systems are listed below- 1. GPS (Global Positioning System)- Developed and maintained by the United States. It's the most widely used navigation system worldwide. 2. GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System)- Developed by Russia. It serves as an alternative and complement to GPS. 3. Galileo- Developed by the European Union. It aims to provide high-precision positioning services and is interoperable with GPS and GLONASS. 4. BeiDou- Developed by China. It offers global coverage and provides positioning, navigation, and timing services.
Anvesha is a creative content specialist with a strong foundation in communications and media. She thrives in dynamic work environments, particularly within the B2B tech sector. With a keen understanding of the telematics, fleet management, and logistics industry, she has crafted 1000+on page compelling content that resonates with target audiences. Beyond her professional pursuits, Anvesha is a passionate writer and lover of literature. When not immersed in her work you will find her either writing poetries or brainstorming on social issues.
Unfold the what, why, and how of telematics control units. From its workings to understanding the difference between TCUs and TGUs- everything, so get started.
Running a fleet without strategizing? You are doing it all wrong. Here, note down just 9 ways to form a spectacular fleet management strategy.
Read a lot of pieces around digital tachographs? Still not clear with what exactly is this? This piece is for you as it unfolds everything about tachographs.
Do you see a blinking check engine light but don’t know what it means or the reason? In this blog, we will learn why deciphering DTC codes is crucial for identifying the issue.
In the meantime, why not find out more about us, explore our products, or visit our blog?
Stay Updated on tech, telematics and mobility. Don't miss out on the latest in the industry.
We use cookies to enhance and personalize your browsing experience. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy.