SpaDeX Mission

SpaDeX Mission Latest News

Recently, The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the second docking of its two satellites — SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) — under the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission.

About the SpaDeX Mission

• SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a technology demonstration mission developed by ISRO to validate the capability of docking and undocking two small satellites in low-Earth orbit.
• The mission involved two small satellites, each weighing around 220 kg: SDX01 (Chaser), SDX02 (Target)
• These satellites were launched by PSLV-C60 into a 460 km circular orbit with an inclination of 45 degrees.

Objectives of the SpaDeX Mission

• Primary objective: To develop and demonstrate the capability for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft in orbit.
• Secondary objectives: To demonstrate the transfer of electric power between docked spacecraft a crucial component for future in-space operations.
  • To develop and validate composite spacecraft control systems.
  • To test payload operations after undocking — important for deep-space missions.
• With this achievement, India becomes the fourth country after the United States, Russia, and China to successfully conduct satellite docking operations.

SpaDeX Mission FAQs

Q1. What does SpaDeX stand for?
Ans. SpaDeX stands for "Space Docking Experiment," an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission aimed at demonstrating autonomous docking between two spacecraft.

Q2. Why is the SpaDeX Mission significant for India?
Ans. SpaDeX is critical for future Indian space missions involving crewed spaceflights, space station modules, and satellite servicing, as it will allow two spacecraft to dock in orbit without human intervention.

Q3. Which organization is behind the SpaDeX Mission?
Ans. The SpaDeX Mission is being developed by ISRO — the Indian Space Research Organisation.

Source: TH