On December 30, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans a significant launch that could impact future lunar missions. The launch from Satish Dhawan Space Centre will carry two small satellites on a mission to test autonomous docking technology in orbit.
The ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will transport the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), featuring two primary components—the Target and Chaser satellites. The mission is aimed at testing crucial autonomous docking capabilities, a vital step for India’s broader space exploration goals.
In addition to testing docking equipment, the mission includes a secondary payload module with 24 experiments, highlighting the diversity of technological tests onboard. These experiments range from testing a small robotic arm to managing dual spacecraft control and power transfer post-docking.
SpaDeX’s mission objectives extend beyond simple docking operations. If successful, it will serve as a foundation for advanced missions such as the planned Chandrayaan-4, which aims to return samples from the lunar south pole. This technology is essential for potential missions requiring multiple launches that need to achieve shared objectives, such as constructing and operating a future space station.
ISRO has emphasized the importance of in-space docking technology for India’s vision, stating that it is crucial for human spaceflight programs and lunar exploration. The ability to perform these operations autonomously will be key in the development of future space infrastructure.
As the satellites operate in low Earth orbit, at an altitude of approximately 290 miles, the plan is for them to conduct docking and rigidization before demonstrating the electrical power transfer. The operation is expected to last up to two years and will include various tests of the payloads aboard the SpaDeX.
The innovative payloads feature technologies that attempt tasks resembling those performed by the International Space Station’s CanadArm2. This includes a robotic arm designed to test debris capture methods, an important experiment considering the increasing concern about space debris.
Additionally, the non-docking components will be tested on ISRO’s PS4-Orbital Experiment Module, known as POEM-4. This platform allows the scientific community to perform in-orbit microgravity experiments over an extended period.
The planned launch marks a promising advancement in India’s space research efforts, as it could pave the way for future lunar expeditions and the establishment of India’s own space infrastructure. This mission is a testament to ISRO’s ongoing commitment to expanding its technical capabilities and exploring the frontiers of space.
