IMO Recognized IRNSS as Component of World Wide Radio Navigation System
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) have recognized the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) as a component of the World Wide Radio Navigation System (WWRNS) on November 20, 2020. This has been accepted for operation in the Indian Ocean region.
Significance
This step will enable the merchant vessels to use the IRNSS to obtain the position information similar to Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). It will help in assisting the navigation of ships in ocean waters. This system will cover the area between 50°N latitude, 55°E longitude, 5°S latitude and 110°E longitude. This means an area of approximately up to 1500 km from Indian boundary.
Highlights
The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of International Maritime Organisation (IMO) recognized the IRNSS as a component of WWRNS during its recent meeting that was held from November 4 to November 11. This is being recognized as a significant achievement of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in achieving the flagship initiative of India called ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)
IRNSS is an operational name of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation). It is an autonomous regional satellite navigation system. The system provides an accurate real-time positioning and timing services. It covers India and surrounding region of 1,500 km. The system presently consists of a constellation of seven satellites. It also has two additional satellites on ground as stand-by. It provides two levels of service:
- Standard positioning service- It will be open for civilian use.
- Restricted service- for authorized users.