UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 11
With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements :
- IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits.
- IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders.
- India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019.
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Correct Option: A
Explanation: The original seven-satellite IRNSS/NavIC constellation used three geostationary and four inclined geosynchronous satellites. The other claims exaggerate its coverage and promise global service by 2019.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Correct - The initial NavIC system comprised 3 geostationary plus 4 inclined geosynchronous satellites.
Statement/Item 2: Incorrect - Its stated service region was India and roughly 1,500 km beyond its boundaries, not an area of merely 5,500 sq km.
Statement/Item 3: Incorrect - IRNSS was a regional navigation system; global coverage was not scheduled as a completed service by mid-2019.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Correct - includes all and only the true statements/items.
B: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/item 2.
C: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/items 2, 3; omits correct statement/item 1.
D: Incorrect - omits correct statement/item 1.