Bengaluru: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced a significant development in its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission as two satellites were brought as close as three metres in a trial attempt for in-space docking. The update, shared on January 12, marks a crucial step toward achieving space docking technology.
Trial Brings Satellites Close for Further Analysis
The satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), launched on December 30 onboard a PSLV-C60 rocket, were placed in a 475-kilometre low-Earth orbit. ISRO’s trial involved bringing the two spacecraft to a separation of 15 metres and then reducing it to just three metres before moving them back to a safe distance. The next step will involve analysing the data gathered during this trial to proceed with the docking process.
Aiming to Join Global Space Docking Capabilities
With the SpaDeX mission, India aims to become the fourth country globally to demonstrate space docking technology. The experiment is a cost-effective technology demonstrator designed to validate critical processes such as rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft.
Key Objectives of the Mission
The SpaDeX mission is focused on developing capabilities for future space applications. Key objectives include:
Electric power transfer between docked spacecraft: This technology will be vital for advanced missions involving in-space robotics and extended operations.
Composite spacecraft control: Ensuring precise control when the two spacecraft are docked and operating together.
Post-undocking payload operations: Testing the functional capabilities of spacecraft after separation.
The success of SpaDeX is expected to pave the way for advanced applications in space exploration and robotics, marking another step forward in India’s space technology efforts.
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