ISRO successfully launches IRNSS-1G satellite; PM Modi says greatest gift from scientists

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched IRNSS-1G to complete India's own navigational satellite system from Sriharikota, according to an ANI alert. 

This accomplishment was congratulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for which he tweeted his appreciation. 

First and foremost I want to congratulate all @isro scientists and the entire team. I also congratulate the people of India: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 28, 2016

In space science, our scientists have achieved many accomplishments. Through space science lives of people can be transformed: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 28, 2016

India has launched 7 such navigation satellites which have been successful: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 28, 2016

With this successful launch, we will determine our own paths powered by our technology. This is a great gift to people from scientists: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 28, 2016

Our efforts will not only help India but we can help fellow SAARC nations as well: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 28, 2016

ISRO was set to launch PSLV-C33 to place India's seventh and final navigation satellite IRNSS-1G in the orbit from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota island on Thursday.

The launch of the four-stage Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) was scheduled to take place at 12:50 pm on Thursday, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

The 54-hour countdown for the launch of ISRO workhorse began at 9.20 am on Tuesday.

The satellite with a design lifespan of 12 years has two payloads for navigation and ranging.

Till date, ISRO has launched six regional navigational satellites (IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C, ID, 1E and 1F) as part of a constellation of seven satellites to provide accurate position information service to users across the country and the region.

IRNSS-1F was launched on the ISRO`s trusted PSLV C32 on March 10. During the countdown, propellant-filling operations would be taken up in the four-stage vehicle.

(With inputs from ANI)