ISRO Moves Closer to Historic Milestone; SpaDeX Docking, Satellites Brought to 3-Meter Proximity!
In a significant step towards space docking, two satellites that were launched for the experiment have been brought to just three meters apart, and a practical attempt at docking has been made in space. After the attempt, the satellites were safely moved back. ISRO announced on Sunday that further analysis of the operation’s data will be conducted, and the docking process will be carried out afterward.
ISRO tweeted about the trial: “A practical attempt was made to bring the satellites to within three meters of each other. Afterward, the spacecraft were safely moved back to a safe distance. After further analyzing the operational data, the docking procedure will be carried out. This docking experiment, using small spacecraft, is a mission aimed at developing advanced technologies at a lower cost.”
ISRO Space Docking Experiment Postponed for the Second Time
The SpaDeX space docking experiment, which was initially scheduled for January 7 and January 9, has been delayed, and the docking procedure is now underway. Launched on December 30, the mission uses two small spacecraft in space to achieve the goal of docking.
The PSLV-C60 rocket, launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, carried two satellites weighing 220 kg and successfully placed them into a 475 km circular orbit. ISRO has stated that space docking technology is crucial for future missions where multiple rocket launches are required to achieve common mission objectives.
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗗𝗲𝗫 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲:
A trial attempt was made to get as far as 15 meters and then 3 meters.
Spacecraft retreating to a safe distance. Following more data analysis, the docking procedure will be completed.
Stay tuned for updates… pic.twitter.com/5N4SRNHfA7
— ISRO InSight (@ISROSight) January 12, 2025
Mission Objective
The primary goal of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for docking and undocking two small spacecraft (SDX01 – Chaser and SDX02 – Target) in low Earth orbit. It also aims to determine whether power transfer occurs between docked spacecraft. This experiment is vital for future missions involving space robotics, integrated spacecraft control, and payload operations after undocking.
Historic Achievement
The success of the SpaDeX project will play a critical role in future operations, such as setting up an Indian space station and landing on the Moon with human spaceflight. As multiple rocket launches are often needed to achieve the goals of similar missions, space docking technology is essential. This mission will also make India the fourth country in the world to possess space docking technology.
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