SpaDeX mission: ISRO's satellites near 3m in space docking trial, shares video

SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other! (Image: ISRO)

Two Indian satellites came within three metres during a trial for space docking, the Indian Space Research Organisation announced on January 12. The satellites will now move back before attempting docking at a controlled pace of 10 millimetres per second.

Progress in India’s Space Docking Experiment
ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission achieved a significant milestone today. The SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) satellites approached within 3 metres during trials. After analysing data, the satellites will attempt an "exciting handshake," as ISRO described, using the indigenously developed Bhartiya Docking System.

SpaDeX Docking Update:SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other! #SPADEX #ISRO pic.twitter.com/RICiEVP6qB
ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025

"Initial trials to reach 15 metres and then 3 metres are complete. The satellites are now moving to a safe distance for further analysis," ISRO announced. Docking involves precise back-and-forth manoeuvres and stringent sensor calibrations.

Pioneering Space Efforts for Future Missions
Launched on 30 December aboard PSLV C60, SpaDeX placed the satellites in a 475-kilometre orbit. If successful, India will join the ranks of three other nations with docking capabilities. This will advance plans for projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and Chandrayaan 4.

ISRO postponed the historic docking twice to refine calibrations and algorithms. "The first attempt at docking presents unique challenges. All scenarios are being rigorously tested before sending commands for autonomous docking," ISRO chief Dr. S. Somnath said.

Once docked, the satellites will operate as a single unit. They will transfer electrical power between them to validate the docking process. The mission’s success will be confirmed after the satellites undock and resume independent functions.