In a significant stride for space technology, India successfully launched spacecraft on December 30, 2024, designed to test advanced docking capabilities. This mission marks a pivotal moment in India’s space ambitions, particularly for future projects involving human spaceflight and lunar exploration.
On December 30, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, India launched the PSLV-C60 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission carried the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) and 24 other experiments aboard the POEM-4 secondary payload. These payloads include a variety of innovations, such as a walking robotic arm and a debris capture robotic manipulator, showcasing diverse technological advancements.
The SpaDeX mission, a venture by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), aims to demonstrate orbital docking, a crucial technology for India’s strategic space objectives. The mission involves two spacecraft, SDX01 and SDX02, weighing 220 kilograms each. These spacecraft were successfully placed into a 475-kilometer circular orbit, set at a 55-degree inclination.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath expressed his satisfaction following the separation of the two SpaDeX spacecraft. He confirmed the successful deployment of solar arrays and announced that docking is scheduled for January 7. The docking experiment will use an indigenous, low-impact system with an approach velocity of approximately 10 millimeters per second. This system is complemented by advanced sensors such as a Laser Range Finder and Corner Cube Retro Reflectors, which assist in precise docking maneuvers.
A key feature of the mission is the GNSS-based Relative Orbit Determination and Propagation (RODP) processor, ensuring accurate positioning. Post-docking, the mission will demonstrate electrical power transfer before the spacecraft separate to commence their missions. This operation underpins India’s broader ambitions to join the ranks of countries with independent human spaceflight capabilities through the Gaganyaan program, which eyes a crewed flight in 2026 and uncrewed tests in 2025.
Additionally, docking technology is intended for the Chandrayaan-4 mission, set for 2027 or 2028, aiming to acquire lunar south pole samples. The capability to dock is essential for transferring samples from the lunar surface back to Earth.
This launch represents the culmination of a busy year for India’s orbital missions, with SpaDeX and POEM-4 marking the fifth launch in 2024. Previous missions included a PSLV carrying the XPoSat X-ray astronomy satellite and others supporting meteorology and Earth observation.
The successful launch and operation of the SpaDeX mission underscore India’s determination to expand its space capabilities. By advancing docking technology, India sets the stage for future lunar missions and human spaceflight, reinforcing its position as a significant player in the global space arena.
Source: Spacenews
