India successfully launches satellite IRNSS-1D satellite

It is the fourth satellite of IRNSS constellation.

"The satellite is one among the seven of the IRNSS constellation of satellites slated to be launched to provide navigational services to the region. The satellite is placed in geosynchronous orbit," read the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) website.

"The satellite will help augmenting the satellite based navigation system of India which is currently under development. The navigational system so developed will be a regional one targeted towards South Asia. The satellite will provide navigation, tracking and mapping services," it said.

Meanwhile, Indian President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have congratulated scientists for the successful launch of PSLV-C27.

In a message to A.S. Kiran Kumar, Chairman of ISRO, the President has said, “My heartiest congratulations to you and your entire team at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of PSLV-C27, carrying the IRNSS-1D. I am very happy to know that this is the fourth in the series of seven satellites of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System. I understand the IRNSS-1D will provide navigation, tracking and mapping services which will take us closer to setting up our own navigation system."

He said: "The nation is proud of this achievement which has demonstrated, yet again, India’s increasing space capabilities. "

Mukherjee said: "Kindly convey my greetings to all members of your team of scientists, engineers and technologists involved in this great mission. I wish your future endeavours great success.”

Modi also congratulated the scientists and tweeted: "Launch of satellite IRNSS-1D is yet another manifestation of the exemplary efforts & utmost brilliance of our scientists. Congrats to them."