India’s space exploration journey achieved another milestone as ISRO successfully launched the PSLV-C60 carrying the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) and other payloads from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on Monday. The mission marks a significant leap in India’s space technology, paving the way for ambitious projects like Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan.
Key Highlights of the SpaDeX Mission
SpaDeX, ISRO’s year-end project, aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology, a crucial capability for long-duration missions. The mission involves two small spacecraft—SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target)—which will rendezvous, dock, and undock in low-Earth orbit. The final docking is expected to occur around January 7, 2025.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath emphasized the importance of docking technology for future missions. Speaking about Chandrayaan-4, he explained that the mission comprises five modules launched separately and integrated into two modules. “Docking is essential for Chandrayaan-4, which aims to travel to the Moon, land, and return to Earth successfully,” he said.
Significance for Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan
The SpaDeX mission lays the groundwork for complex maneuvers required in Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan. In Chandrayaan-4, docking will enable multiple modules to connect in Earth and lunar orbits. For Gaganyaan, India’s first manned space mission, docking technology will play a vital role in assembling components in orbit.
Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the mission, calling it a testament to India’s rising stature in global space exploration. He highlighted the development of the indigenously built Bharatiya Docking System, which places India among a select group of nations mastering space docking technology.
Towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’
Dr. Singh noted that the success of SpaDeX is a tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and a step towards achieving a developed India (“Viksit Bharat”). The mission’s success will bolster India’s upcoming initiatives, including the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (Indian Space Station).
With SpaDeX, ISRO continues to push boundaries, setting the stage for groundbreaking space missions and affirming India’s position as a global leader in space technology.
