India is on its way towards developing the country's very own GPS system with the planned launch of the PSLV-C22 rocket tonight from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, located in Nellore, AP. The launch has been scheduled for sharp 11:41pm.

Countdown for the launch began at 7:11am yesterday, following the green signal. During this time, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will be prepared for launching. The rocket's electronic and electric system will be alerted, while authorities will determine the rocket's direction through the release of several balloons into the air.

PSLV-C22 will carry the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System - 1A (IRNSS-1A), which is the initial step that will pave the path for the nation's GPS system.

This event is the 24th in the PSLV rocket series developed by the Indian Satellite Research Organization. IRNSS-1A, weighing 1425kgs, has a mission life of 10 years. An additional 11 satellites are also up for launch in 2 years.

(AW-Sruthi)