ISRO’s historic SpaDeX mission and its transformational impact on India's space future

By Ishwi Singh  |  First Published Dec 31, 2024, 2:58 PM IST

ISRO launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission on December 30, 2024. This achievement marks India as the fourth nation to master this technology, paving the way for advancements in space research.

ISRO's historic Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission was launched on December 30, 2024, at 10 pm. The SpaDeX mission aims to demonstrate space docking technology by connecting two small spacecraft travelling at ten times the speed of a bullet. The docking process is set to be completed by January 7. The success of this mission will mark a significant milestone for Indian space missions, paving the way for many more exciting achievements. It will bring transformative advancements in space technology and research in India, representing a major step towards mastering orbital docking technology.

With this success, India joins the elite club of just three nations that have previously achieved this feat. After the United States, Russia, and China, India becomes the fourth country to successfully execute in-space docking technology.

Key points about the mission

Launching Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
Rocket: PSLV-C60
Satellites: Two small satellites launched, each weighing 220 kg
Orbit: 470 km circular orbit, at 55° inclination
Time cycle: 66 days
Time: December 30, 9:58 pm, the last mission of 2024

Purpose of the mission

Docking Technology Demonstration: The SpaDeX mission features two small satellites, SDX01 (chaser) and SDX02 (target), weighing a combined total of approximately 220 kilograms. These satellites will showcase the ability to dock and undock in low Earth orbit, demonstrating crucial advancements in space docking technology.

Power Transfer: A key objective of the SpaDeX mission is to demonstrate the transfer of power between the satellites after docking. This technique is crucial for future robotic missions and will play a vital role in India’s proposed space station, the 'Bharatiya Antariksh Station' (BAS).

Independent Testing: The SpaDeX mission will test independent techniques, including rendezvous and post-docking activities between satellites. To prepare India for more sophisticated space operations and enhance its capabilities in advanced space operations are strategic objectives of these tests.

Benefits of SpaDeX Mission

Technology Advancement: This mission will upgrade the capability of India in terms of satellite docking and rendezvous techniques, which are critical prerequisites for proficiency in a variety of future projects, namely human spacecraft missions and satellite servicing. This advancement will position India at the forefront of cutting-edge space technology.

Foundation for Future Projects: The SpaDeX mission establishes a strong foundation for ambitious future endeavours, such as the Lunar Sample Return Mission and India’s national space station. It also plays a pivotal role in the Gaganyaan programme, which aims to send humans into space by 2025.

Indigenous Technology: The SpaDeX mission enables ISRO to develop indigenous docking techniques, reducing reliance on foreign technologies. This advancement will not only enhance India’s self-sufficiency in space technology but also help lower the cost and expenses of future space missions.

The SpaDeX mission will carve out a new identity for India on the international stage, opening doors to new research opportunities and global collaborations. It will establish India as a leading space power. According to scientists, this ISRO mission is not just a technical demonstration but a pivotal turning point in India's space journey. This initiative will lay the groundwork for significant upcoming projects, reinforcing India's prominent role in the realm of space science.

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