India, Oct. 31 -- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday successfully launched NVS-03, India's next-generation navigation satellite, strengthening the country's indigenous navigation capabilities and marking another significant milestone in its space programme.

When most of the countrymen were fast asleep, scientists created history when the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), carrying the satellite, lifted off from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR).

NVS-03 is the third satellite in the next-generation navigation satellite system, envisaged to ensure continuity of navigation services under the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).

The countdown for the missio...