ISRO's SpaDeX Satellites Reach 3 Meters in Docking Trial Using Bhartiya System

Jan 12, 2025, 01:15 AM

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made significant progress in its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, with the two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), successfully approaching within three meters of each other during a trial attempt. Launched on December 30, 2024, aboard a PSLV C60 rocket from Sriharikota, the mission aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology, a critical step for India's future space endeavors. The satellites, each weighing 220 kg, were initially placed into a 475-km circular orbit and have been maneuvered closer, reaching 15 meters before the trial at three meters. ISRO has moved the satellites back to a safe distance to analyze the data before proceeding with the actual docking, which will involve a gradual approach at a speed of 10 millimeters per second using the indigenously developed Bhartiya Docking System. This mission, if successful, will position India as the fourth nation to master this complex technology, essential for future missions like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar explorations.