Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh: In a significant milestone for India’s space exploration, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV-C60 rocket late on Monday, carrying two groundbreaking spacecraft for the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). The mission, launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, propels India into the elite group of nations capable of performing space docking operations, a critical technology for future space missions.
This historic mission marks the first time ISRO will demonstrate docking and undocking of two spacecraft 470 kilometers above Earth, moving at speeds exceeding 28,000 kilometers per hour. The two spacecraft—dubbed “Target” and “Chaser”—were launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket and will operate in precise coordination to execute this intricate maneuver.
A Pioneering Achievement for India
India now becomes the fourth nation globally, after the United States, Russia, and China, to master space docking technology. The SpaDeX mission signifies a giant leap for ISRO, underscoring its growing expertise in advanced space technologies.
The docking process is expected to commence around 10 days after the launch. Initially, the Chaser spacecraft will approach the Target from a distance of approximately 20 kilometers, gradually closing the gap to 3 meters. At this point, the docking mechanism will engage, enabling a physical and electrical connection between the two spacecraft. Once docked, power will be transferred, simulating operations required for future space stations and extended interplanetary missions.
India’s Patent-Protected Docking System
A unique aspect of this mission is the docking system, entirely designed and patented by India. Nations typically guard docking technology as a closely held secret, necessitating ISRO to develop its proprietary mechanism. This achievement not only underscores India’s innovation but also lays the foundation for future endeavors such as a dedicated space station and more ambitious interplanetary missions.
Dual-Purpose Mission
In addition to SpaDeX, ISRO scientists have configured the PSLV-C60’s fourth stage (PS-4) as the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-4 (POEM-4). This module will deploy 24 small payloads—14 from ISRO and 10 from academia—into different orbits over a span of 90 minutes post-launch.
Vision for the Future
The SpaDeX mission is crucial for realizing India’s dream of establishing its own space station and advancing interstellar exploration. Additionally, the success of this mission will play a pivotal role in the development of Chandrayaan-4 and other ambitious projects.
