IRNSS-1F, launched in 2016, is the sixth navigation satellite of the seven satellites constituting the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) space segment.
- Its payload included highly accurate Rubidium Atomic Clock, a critical component for providing navigation service.
About Atomic clock
- An atomic clock is an ultra-precise, space-hardened timekeeping device that measures time by monitoring the resonant frequency of atomic transitions in elements such as cesium, rubidium, or hydrogen.
- It works like a conventional clock but the time-base of the clock is based on the properties of atoms when transitioning between different energy states.
- An atom, when excited by an external energy source, goes to a higher energy state and then, it returns to a lower energy state. In this transition, the atom releases energy at a very precise frequency which is used as an input for measuring time.
- Atomic Clocks are said to gain or lose only one second every 100 million years, as compared to one second in a few days for conventional clocks like those that are based on quartz.
- They have a lifespan of 10—15 years, roughly commensurate with the average operational life of a satellite.
About IRNSS – Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC)
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