ISRO provides major update on SpaDeX mission amid satellite docking delays

The mission, known as the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), involves two satellites—one chaser and one target. (Image: ISRO)

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making strides with its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission despite recent delays. On 9 January, ISRO announced that the spacecraft have been set on a slow drift course to bring them closer together.

Slow Drift Initiated for Docking Preparation
ISRO revealed in a post on X that the spacecraft are expected to reach initialisation conditions by 10 January. The organisation stated, “The drift has been arrested, and the spacecraft put in a slow drift course to move closer. By tomorrow, it is expected to reach initialisation conditions.”

SpaDeX Docking Update:The drift has been arrested and spacecrafts put in a slow drift course to move closer to each other. By tomorrow, it is expected to reach initialisation conditions.#SPADEX #ISRO
ISRO (@isro) January 9, 2025

The SpaDeX mission, originally planned for 7 January, faced its second delay after unexpected satellite drifting during a manoeuvre. The docking experiment was further postponed on 8 January to address the issue.

Mission Details and Objectives
SpaDeX is a cost-effective demonstration project showcasing India’s in-space docking technology. Launched on 30 December aboard PSLV-C60, the mission involves two small spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), in a low-Earth circular orbit.

The mission aims to develop and demonstrate the ability for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking. ISRO's focus is on proving indigenous technology for future space operations.

"Aatmanirbhar Bharat" Vision in Space
Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted the mission's alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of "Aatmanirbhar Bharat." Singh noted that SpaDeX, also called "Bharatiya Docking Technology," represents India's self-reliance in space innovation.

Despite setbacks, ISRO continues its efforts to achieve this milestone in space docking technology.