Context : ISRO is attempting to dock two satellites (SDX01 – Chaser, SDX02 – Target) in space as part of the SPaDeX mission, designed to demonstrate spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking technologies.
Relevance : GS 3(Space)
Launch Details: The PSLV C60 rocket launched the two satellites into space on December 30, 2024, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
Trial Update:
- ISRO successfully brought the satellites within 3 meters of each other in a trial attempt.
- The satellites were initially 15 meters apart and later brought closer to 3 meters, before moving them back to a safe distance for further analysis.
Setback and Recovery:
- The docking experiment faced a delay due to an unexpected drift between the satellites, which had to be addressed before proceeding.
- The drift was more than expected, causing the postponement of the docking attempt from January 7 to January 8.
- ISRO overcame the drift issue and is now proceeding with further data analysis before attempting the docking.
Significance of the Mission:
- The SPaDeX mission is crucial for developing technologies required for future space missions, such as:
- Sending an Indian astronaut to the moon.
- Moon sample return missions.
- Establishing an Indian space station.
- Successful execution will place India among the leading countries (U.S., Russia, China) capable of spacecraft docking.
Next Steps: Docking will be attempted after analyzing trial data. If successful, India will join the ranks of the U.S., Russia, and China in mastering spacecraft docking.
