Science & Technology·Prelims Strategy

GPS and Navigation — Prelims Strategy

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Version 1Updated 10 Mar 2026

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Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, focus on factual accuracy and conceptual clarity regarding GPS and NAVIC. Memorize key specifications: NAVIC's constellation (7 satellites, 3 GEO, 4 IGSO), coverage area (India + 1500 km), frequency bands (L5, S-band), and the names of other global GNSS (GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou).

Understand the basic principle of trilateration. Pay close attention to error sources (ionospheric, tropospheric, multipath, clock errors) and their mitigation techniques (dual-frequency, GAGAN). Distinguish between pseudorange and carrier-phase measurements.

Be aware of the strategic reasons for NAVIC's development (Kargil War context, strategic autonomy). Current affairs related to new satellite launches, policy mandates (e.g., NAVIC integration in phones), and international collaborations are frequently tested.

Practice MCQs that test comparisons between systems and applications in various sectors like agriculture, disaster management, and transportation. Create flashcards for key terms and their definitions.