Why ISRO’s SpaDEX Mission can be a game-changer for future projects?

SpaDEX will position India alongside the US, Russia, and China as one of the few countries with space docking capabilities (Image: ISRO)

After the successful launch of ESA's Proba-3 two-satellite formation flying mission by ISRO's PSLV-C59, the organization is preparing to launch its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEX) mission in December 2024.

ISRO chief S. Somanath thanked NewSpace India Ltd and ESA for the successful PSLV-C59/Probas-3 launch on December 5 and announced that the PSLV-C60/SpaDEX mission is scheduled for later this month.

"The PSLV-C60 mission will demonstrate the Space Docking Experiment, known as SpaDEX. The rocket is ready, and we are preparing for the final stages of activities leading to the launch, which is expected to take place in December," he said.

Space Docking Experiment is a twin satellite mission being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to mature technologies related to orbital rendezvous, docking, formation flying, with scope of applications in human spaceflight, in-space satellite servicing and other proximity operations

The mission will consist of two 400-kg satellites, named "Chaser" and "Target," which will be launched together aboard a PSLV-class rocket. After reaching an altitude of 700 kilometers, the satellites will perform a highly coordinated rendezvous, culminating in an autonomous docking to form a single unit in orbit. This maneuver is critical for future missions that require docking, such as space station assembly, satellite refueling, and transporting astronauts or cargo between spacecraft.

The mission's goals include:

--Autonomous rendezvous and docking
--Controlling one spacecraft using the Attitude Control System of another while docked
--Formation flying
--Remote robotic arm operations

If successful, SpaDEX will position India alongside the US, Russia, and China as one of the few countries with space docking capabilities.

The success of the mission is critical for ISRO's future plans, including the Chandrayaan-4 mission, which aims to collect lunar samples, as well as the proposed Bharatiya Antariksha Station and the Gaganyaan space flights.

Docking technology could also extend the lifespan of geostationary satellites by allowing the replacement of their propulsion systems directly in orbit.

This mission marks a significant milestone for India's space sector, with notable contributions from Ananth Technologies, a private Indian company responsible for developing the mission’s satellites.

SpaDEX showcases the potential of public-private collaboration in India's expanding space industry.

The mission’s success could open up a range of opportunities for India in space exploration, including long-duration human spaceflight, the construction of large space structures, and commercial possibilities in satellite servicing and space debris management.