With the planned launch of the SpaDeX mission on December 26, 2024, India is poised to make a major technological advancement in space. In order to improve India’s future space exploration endeavors, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is conducting this mission to showcase in-space docking technology.
Two tiny spacecraft, named Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02), will be launched by the PSLV-C60 as part of the SpaDeX project. At a height of 470 kilometers and a 55-degree inclination, each spacecraft, which weighs about 220 kg, will be released into a circular orbit.
The main objective is to create and demonstrate the technology needed for the two spacecraft to rendezvous, dock, and undock. Future missions, such as the collection of lunar samples and the construction of the projected Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), depend on this capability.
If India is successful, it will become one of the few countries that have proven they can dock in space, along with the US, Russia, and China. For many sophisticated space activities, including satellite maintenance and multi-rocket missions with shared goals, this technology is essential.
Advanced sensors aboard the mission include a radiation monitor to collect information on radiation levels in space, a small multi-spectral payload for resource monitoring, and a high-resolution camera for Earth observation.
ISRO verified that the launch vehicle had been integrated and relocated to the First Launch Pad for last-minute preparations on December 21, 2024. The agency hopes to finish all required integrations by the planned launch date.
In addition to being a technical demonstration, the SpaDeX mission marks a significant strategic turning point for India’s space aspirations. It is anticipated that being proficient in in-orbit docking technology will improve India’s standing as a major participant in international space exploration projects and enable cross-border cooperation. The successful completion of this mission will open the door for future initiatives like the Gaganyaan program’s human spaceflights and the Chandrayaan-4 moon mission.
With the SpaDEX mission, India is preparing for a space milestone, and ISRO is getting ready for the in-space docking test.
