December 31, 2024
The mission marks India’s foray into spacecraft docking, essential for space station assembly and interplanetary missions
Two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), will demonstrate autonomous docking and undocking in low-Earth orbit
SpaDeX incorporates indigenous technologies, including advanced docking mechanisms and a GNSS-based positioning system
The mission positions India among the elite group of nations mastering docking technologies, joining the US, Russia, and China
ISRO achieved a milestone in its space exploration journey with the successful launch of the “Space Docking Experiment” (SpaDeX) mission on Monday night. The PSLV-C60 rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 10 pm, carrying two spacecraft, SDX01 and SDX02, designed to test autonomous docking and undocking capabilities.
The satellites were placed into a precise 475-km circular orbit, exceeding the projected altitude of 470 km. ISRO confirmed the mission’s success, noting its significance in demonstrating critical docking technology for satellite servicing, space station construction, and deep space missions.
The SpaDeX mission’s primary objective is to test docking capabilities in low-Earth orbit. The Chaser spacecraft (SDX01) and the Target spacecraft (SDX02) will execute intricate manoeuvres to rendezvous, dock, and undock autonomously. The mission also integrates a differential GNSS-based Satellite Positioning System to ensure precise control and coordination during these operations.
In addition to docking, SpaDeX will demonstrate advanced capabilities, such as electric power transfer between docked spacecraft and composite spacecraft control, which are crucial for multi-satellite coordination. Payload operations post-undocking will also be assessed to validate the spacecraft’s functionality and performance.
The mission features a host of indigenous innovations, including an advanced docking mechanism, rendezvous sensors, and inter-satellite communication links for real-time monitoring. A GNSS-based processor for relative orbit determination enhances precision during the docking process, making it a precursor to autonomous technologies for future lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4.
The spacecraft was designed and developed by ISRO’s U R Rao Satellite Centre, with support from various other centres. The mission’s orbital operations will be managed by ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network in collaboration with external ground stations.
The PSLV-C60 launch also carried POEM-4 (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module), which hosts 24 payloads for research and development. ISRO Chief S Somanath highlighted the success of the SpaDeX mission, emphasising its importance for future Indian space endeavours. He announced plans for upcoming missions in 2025, including the GSLV launch of NVS-02 in January.
By mastering docking technology, ISRO has positioned India among an elite group of nations, including the US, Russia, and China. This achievement bolsters India’s plans to establish its own space station by 2035 and furthers its ambitions for interplanetary exploration and human spaceflight missions.
The PSLV-C60 mission represents a leap forward in India’s space technology development, solidifying ISRO’s status as a major player in the global space arena.
Source: Economic Times