The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch a pioneering mission, SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment), on December 30, 2024, at 9:58 PM from Sriharikota. This ambitious mission will demonstrate in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by a PSLV rocket. SpaDeX is seen as a significant milestone for India’s space aspirations, paving the way for future missions, including lunar sample return, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), and crewed lunar expeditions.
Developed at ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, SpaDeX aims to place India alongside nations with space docking capabilities. The mission involves two spacecraft, Chaser and Target, that will dock in space after being released into the same orbit. The spacecraft will close the distance from 20 km to just 5 meters before docking, which will take place within 10-15 days of the launch.
This mission will test key technologies, such as sensors, algorithms, and software, vital for future missions like Chandrayaan-4. Successful docking technology is essential for autonomous space operations, especially in missions without Earth-based GNSS support. Sankaran emphasized that docking is critical for the assembly and operation of space stations like BAS.
Despite challenges in developing small spacecraft, ISRO has successfully allocated ₹375 crore for the mission. SpaDeX is expected to cement India’s leadership in space exploration, following the success of Chandrayaan-3.
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