SpaDeX mission
Context:
Recently, ISRO successfully tested its first indigenous in-space docking technology through the SpaDeX mission.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Space technology)
Key Highlights:
- ISRO developed an indigenous docking system called the Bharatiya Docking System.
- India became the fourth country to achieve successful satellite docking, after the US, Russia, and China.
- The success will enable future missions like Chandrayaan-4 without relying on Earth-based GNSS.
- It strengthens India’s strategic space capabilities for human spaceflight and satellite servicing.
- The technology is crucial for establishing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station in the future.
About SpaDeX:
- SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a technology demonstration mission by ISRO to test in-space docking of two satellites.
- Key Points:
- Launched by PSLV C60.
- Uses two small spacecraft: SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target).
- Developed by UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC).
- Aim: To develop and test docking, rendezvous, and undocking technology in low-Earth orbit.
- Docking is key for future human spaceflight, satellite repair, and building India’s own space station.
- Significance:
- SpaDeX positions ISRO among the few global space agencies capable of mastering docking technologies.
- It serves as a precursor for ambitious projects, including India’s lunar and space station missions.
About ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation):
- ISRO is India’s national space agency under the Department of Space, Government of India.
- Headquarters: Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Vision: Utilise space technology for national development, conduct space science research, and explore planets.
- Antrix Corporation Limited (ACL): The commercial arm of ISRO, responsible for marketing space products, providing technical consultancy, and transferring ISRO-developed technologies.
- Current Chairman: Shri S. Somanath.
Prelims Question:
Q. Recently, the SpaDeX mission, seen in the news, is associated with which of the following?
(a) Deep space communication
(b) In-space docking technology
(c) Lunar rover navigation
(d) Asteroid mining exploration
Answer: (b) In-space docking technology
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