The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Spadex mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on December 30, 2024. The mission aims to demonstrate India's first in-space docking technology using two 220-kg satellites, SDX01 (chaser) and SDX02 (target), orbiting at an altitude of 470 kilometres. Docking operations are expected to begin about a week after launch, with the first attempt scheduled for January 7, 2025.
Overview of Spadex Mission
Launch Date and Vehicle: The PSLV-C60 rocket launched the Spadex mission on December 30, 2024 at 10:00 pm Indian time.
Primary Payload: Two satellites, SDX01 (chaser) and SDX02 (target), each weighing around 220 kilograms.
Orbit: The satellites are placed in low Earth orbit at an altitude of 470 kilometres. Docking date: The first docking attempt is scheduled for January 7, 2025. Significance: If this mission is successful, India will become the fourth country to master space docking technology after the United States, Russia and China. Key features of the SPADEX mission spacecraft configuration: SDX01 (Chaser): Equipped with a high-resolution camera. SDX02 (Target): It carries a miniature multispectral payload and a radiation monitor payload. Docking mechanism: Both spacecraft are equipped with the Indian Docking System (BDS), which has identical, low-impact ambidextrous docking mechanisms. Navigation technology: Uses an interoperable GNSS-based Satellite Positioning System (SPS) for precise positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) solutions Secondary payloads: The PSLV-C60 rocket also carried 24 secondary payloads, including a small robotic arm for debris capture and cleanup tests.
SPADEX Mission Objectives
Demonstration of Autonomous Docking: The primary goal is to develop and validate the technology required for autonomous rendezvous and docking of spacecraft.
Support Future Missions: Docking technology is critical for future missions involving satellite servicing, space station construction, and lunar exploration.
Technological Advancement: The mission aims to showcase India’s growing strength in space technology and its ambitions to become a leader in next-generation innovations.
Docking Process and Timeline
Initial Separation: After launch, the two satellites will separate at a distance of about 20 km.
Approach Phase: The chaser will slowly approach the target from a distance of 20 km.
Final Docking: The chaser will reduce its relative speed to just 0.036 km/h before executing the final docking sequence.
Post-Docking Operations: Once docked, the two spacecraft will demonstrate various capabilities, including electrical power transfer and payload operations.
Duration: The mission is scheduled to last for two years, during which ISRO plans to conduct a series of experiments involving 24 different payloads.
Impact and Future Prospects
Joining the Elite Club: Success in the SPADEX mission will put India in an elite group of countries proficient in space docking technology.
Future Missions: Docking technology will be essential for India's future missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and the planned Indian Space Station (BAS).
Technological Advancements: This mission highlights India's growing capabilities in space exploration and its ambitions to become a leader in next-generation innovations.
Challenges and Considerations
Technical Challenges: The docking process requires precise control and coordination, especially given the high speed of the satellites.
Safety Measures: Ensuring the safety of the spacecraft during the docking process is critical to the success of the mission.
Data analysis: Post-docking operations will involve extensive data analysis to validate the technology and identify areas of improvement.
Conclusion
The Spadex mission is an important milestone for India's space programme, as it is the country's first attempt at docking in space. The successful completion of this mission will not only enhance India's technological capabilities but also pave the way for future ambitious space endeavours, including establishing its own space station and possible manned missions to the Moon.