Latest inventions in science and technology GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) Context: GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) is India's indigenous Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS), jointly developed by ISRO and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to improve GPS accuracy, enable safe satellite-based aircraft navigation and landing, support other sectors, and strengthen India's self-reliance in satellite navigation. About GAGAN Full form: GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) Developed by: ISRO + Airports Authority of India (AAI) Type: Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) Objective: Improve GPS accuracy and provide integrity information for aviation safety Operational since: 2015 India’s status: Among few countries (USA, Europe, Japan) with SBAS Purpose / Importance Enhances GPS accuracy for aircraft navigation Provides real-time correction of GPS error Gives integrity alerts if GPS signal is unreliable Ensures safer aircraft landing and navigation Supports India’s goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) Key Infrastructure 15 Indian Reference Stations (INRES): Monitor GPS signals 2 Indian Master Control Centres (INMCC): Process data and generate corrections 3 Indian Land Uplink Stations (INLUS): Send corrections to satellites 4 Communication Networks: Connect all systems 3 Geostationary Satellites: GSAT-8, GSAT-10, GSAT-15 (carry GAGAN payloads) Satellite Features (Important Concept) Geostationary satellites appear fixed over Earth They orbit at the same speed as Earth’s rotation Broadcast corrected navigation signals continuously Indian Navigation Systems GAGAN: Enhances GPS (aviation-focused) NavIC: India’s indigenous navigation system for positioning, navigation, timing
