ISRO’s SpaDeX Mission
Context:
ISRO successfully launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission on December 18, 2023.
- The PSLV C60 rocket lifted off from Sriharikota at 10 p.m., carrying two small satellites (SDX01 and SDX02) and 24 payloads.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Science and technology)
Key Highlights:
Satellite Deployment:
- The satellites, each weighing 220 kg, were placed into a 475-km circular orbit within 15 minutes of launch.
- Solar panels of the satellites were successfully deployed post-launch.
Objective:
- The mission aims to demonstrate technologies for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking.
- These technologies are critical for future space missions, such as manned lunar exploration, sample return missions, and building a space station.
Mission Progress:
- Post-launch, the satellites began moving apart, with their distance expected to increase by 20 km in the coming days.
- The docking process is anticipated to take place by January 7, 2024.
Technology Highlights:
- The PSLV’s precision ensured incremental velocity adjustments for controlled separation between the satellites.
- The mission will culminate in a “Far Rendezvous,” where the two satellites will be in the same orbit, separated by 20 km, before docking manoeuvres commence.
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: Dr. V. Narayanan.
