ISRO’s SpaDeX Mission: Pioneering Space Docking

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. ISRO unveiled SpaDeX, India’s first autonomous space docking experiment.
2. The mission will use PSLV-C60 to launch two spacecraft into orbit.
3. These spacecraft will demonstrate docking, undocking, and power transfer operations.
4. SpaDeX supports missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
5. This step positions India among global leaders in space technology.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

SpaDeX: A Giant Leap for Indian Space Technology
ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission marks a groundbreaking achievement in India’s space journey. Set to launch aboard PSLV-C60, SpaDeX will demonstrate autonomous docking technology — critical for complex future missions.

What Is SpaDeX All About?
The mission features two small spacecraft, SDX01 and SDX02, designed to perform docking, undocking, and energy transfer in a low-Earth orbit. This capability is vital for multi-phase missions requiring coordinated operations.

Key Technical Aspects

• Docking and Undocking: Demonstrates rendezvous and separation of spacecraft.
• Electric Power Transfer: Enables energy sharing between spacecraft, essential for in-space robotics.
• Composite Control: Manages synchronized operation of docked systems.

Mission Specifications

• Weight per spacecraft: 220 kg
• Orbit: 470 km circular orbit
• Inclination: 55°
• Operational cycle: Approximately 66 days

Impact on Chandrayaan-4 and BAS
SpaDeX is integral to ISRO’s lunar missions, especially Chandrayaan-4, focusing on returning lunar samples. It will also lay the foundation for the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), positioning India as a leader in space station capabilities.

Towards a Robust Space Infrastructure
If successful, SpaDeX will enable ISRO to handle missions requiring multiple rocket launches and complex operations. This technological advancement strengthens India’s role on the global space stage.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• SpaDeX pioneers space docking technology for India.
• The mission supports advanced projects like Chandrayaan-4 and a space station.
• PSLV-C60 will demonstrate these capabilities in a 470 km orbit.

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