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3 days ago2 min read

India's Year-End Space Milestone: The Spadex Mission and Docking Demonstration


As 2024 draws to a close, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to conclude the year with the groundbreaking Spadex mission. Scheduled for launch on December 30 at 9:58 PM from Sriharikota, this mission aims to demonstrate satellite docking—a critical capability for future space missions like Chandrayaan-4 or establishing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.


Understanding Docking and Its Significance


Docking involves aligning and joining two satellites in space. This intricate maneuver is essential for advanced space missions, including assembling modular space stations, refueling spacecraft, or enabling collaborative scientific experiments in orbit. ISRO’s Spadex mission will demonstrate docking using two small satellites, laying the foundation for India's future endeavors in space exploration and infrastructure.


The Satellites: SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target)


The mission will feature two 220-kg satellites:


  • SDX01 (Chaser): Equipped with a high-resolution miniature surveillance camera.


  • SDX02 (Target): Carries a multispectral payload to monitor natural resources and vegetation, along with a radiation monitor for studying space radiation.


These satellites will align in orbit, close the gap between them, dock, transfer electrical power, and then separate to operate independently for two years.


Mission Process: Step-by-Step


  1. Launch: The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) will deploy the satellites into a 470-km circular orbit, imparting a slight relative velocity to separate them.


  2. Far Rendezvous: Within a day, the satellites will build a separation of 10–20 km. The propulsion system of SDX02 will stabilize the distance, preventing further drift.


  3. Progressive Approach: SDX01 will approach SDX02, reducing the distance through precision maneuvers until they reach proximity at 3 meters.


  4. Docking: Using advanced sensors, the satellites will dock without collision. Electrical power transfer and synchronized control of the spacecraft will be demonstrated.


  5. Separation: Post-docking, the satellites will disengage and activate their individual payloads for independent operations.


Technological Firsts in Spadex


The mission will showcase several innovative technologies:


  • Docking Mechanism: Precision-guided alignment and attachment of small satellites.

  • Advanced Sensors: Prevent collisions and ensure seamless docking.

  • Navigation Processor: Utilizes constellation-based relative orbit determination for precise maneuvers.


Additional Experiments on the PSLV Rocket


The PSLV’s final stage will carry 24 payloads, pushing the boundaries of space experimentation:


  • Robotic Arm for Space Debris Capture: A critical step toward mitigating orbital debris.

  • Plant Growth in Space: Demonstrating seed germination and plant growth up to two leaves, exploring possibilities for sustainable life in space.


Challenges in Docking Small Satellites


Docking smaller satellites poses unique challenges. Their limited size and mass demand unparalleled precision in navigation and control compared to larger spacecraft. ISRO’s success in this endeavor will be a testament to its engineering excellence and innovation.


A Year-End Mission of Many Firsts


The Spadex mission isn’t just a technological demonstration; it’s a leap forward in India’s space ambitions. By proving the capability to dock satellites and deploy cutting-edge technologies, ISRO is paving the way for advanced space missions and collaborations. This year-ending mission underscores India's commitment to innovation and its growing stature in global space exploration.


The Spadex mission encapsulates the spirit of progress, inspiring hope for even greater milestones in the years to come.


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