On December 30, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will begin its ground-breaking Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX).
At 21:58 IST, the mission will be launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota atop the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60).
In-space docking capabilities, a crucial technology for upcoming space missions, are the focus of this significant milestone for ISRO.
SpaDeX Mission: A leap in Space Technology
Two identical satellites, the Chaser (SDX01) and the Target (SDX02), both weighing around 220 kg, will be launched as part of the SpaDeX project.
They will be launched at a 55° inclination in a 470 km low-Earth circular orbit.
The mission’s objectives are to show off precise satellite rendezvous and docking manoeuvres, confirm power transmission between docked spacecraft, and run payloads for up to two years after undocking.
SpaDeX: A Stepping Stone for India’s Space Station
An ISRO official underlined the SpaDeX mission’s strategic significance, stating that it is essential to India’s space exploration goals.
India will become the fourth nation in the world to achieve this feat because to its cutting-edge docking technology.
For missions that require multiple launches to achieve common objectives, such as satellite maintenance, formation flying, and the assembly of intricate structures like the projected Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), the capability is essential.
SpaDeX Mission to Conduct Microgravity Experiments
In addition to its docking goals, the SpaDeX mission will use PSLV’s expended fourth stage, known as POEM-4 (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module), to conduct microgravity experiments.
For the experiments, it will have 24 payloads from universities and startups on board.
Thanks to PSLV’s accuracy, the Chaser and Target satellites will be launched into orbit simultaneously but independently, with a slight initial relative velocity difference.
SpaDeX mission: A Testament to ISRO’s Advanced Capabilities
In addition to being a technical demonstration, the SpaDeX mission serves as a springboard for ISRO’s more ambitious goals.
For ambitious programs like interplanetary exploration, lunar sample-return missions, and establishing a long-term human presence in space, docking spacecraft is essential.
India aspires to join the select group of countries that have perfected in-space docking technology, which presently consists of the US, Russia, and China.
This project demonstrates ISRO’s dedication to creating extremely sophisticated yet affordable space capabilities.
