ISRO's SpaDEX mission: Everything to know about this crucial space docking initiative
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ISRO's SpaDEX mission to launch on Dec 30, 2024, will demonstrate India's spacecraft docking technology, marking a crucial step in space exploration and satellite servicing capabilities.
India is preparing for a key step in space exploration. ISRO will launch the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEX) on December 30, 2024. The mission will use PSLV-C60, lifting off at 21:58 IST from Sriharikota. SpaDEX marks a milestone, showcasing India's expertise in spacecraft docking technology.
Mission Details and Objectives
SpaDEX will deploy two identical satellites, SDX01 and SDX02. Each satellite weighs around 220 kilograms and will orbit 470 km above Earth. Key objectives include:
Performing precision rendezvous and docking manoeuvres.
Validating power transfer between docked spacecraft.
Operating payloads post-undocking, with a two-year lifespan.
The PSLV-C60 has been integrated and moved for final checks. This mission is essential for future endeavours, including satellite servicing and building India's space station, Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
Innovative Use of PSLV's Fourth Stage
SpaDEX will also use PSLV's fourth stage, POEM-4, for experiments. The stage will carry 24 payloads from academic institutions and startups. These experiments will utilise the microgravity environment in orbit.
Why SpaDEX Matters
SpaDEX will demonstrate docking and undocking capabilities between satellites. This includes transferring power and operating scientific payloads. The mission will simulate a sequence of manoeuvres, starting with a far rendezvous phase at 20 km and ending with docking at 3 metres.
This capability is vital for India's lunar and interplanetary missions. Docking technology enables multi-launch missions and supports future human spaceflight. Only the US, Russia, and China have mastered such advancements so far.
