Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 12, 2025, 09:18 AM
SpaDeX Docking Mission: Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has released a major update on its ambitious SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission on Sunday morning. According to ISRO, in this mission, a successful test has been done to reduce the distance between the two satellites from 15 meters to 3 meters. After the test, both spacecraft have been taken back to a safe distance. Now after analyzing the data of this test in depth, the docking process will be carried forward. However, at present the docking process has been stopped and further decision on this will be taken on the basis of data analysis.What is SpaDeX Mission?The SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission consists of two satellites - the first satellite Chaser and the second Target. The main objective of this mission is to develop and test the technology of space docking.The job of the Chaser satellite is to go to the target satellite and connect with it. Additionally, another important technology is being tested in this mission. ISRO has also fitted a robotic arm in the satellite, which will pull the target satellite towards itself through a hook (Tethered System).ISRO scientists believe that the successful testing of this technology will play an important role in future space missions. This will not only control the satellites revolving in orbit, but will also open up the possibilities of servicing and refueling in orbit. Also, through this technology, those satellites which have strayed from their orbit can also be brought back into orbit.Benefits of SpaDeX Mission:Development of spacecraft docking technology: Through this mission, ISRO is developing the technology of connecting two different vehicles in space. This will strengthen India's participation in projects like International Space Station in future.Servicing and refueling in orbit: This technology will make it possible to repair and refuel satellites already present in space. This will reduce the cost of space missions and increase the life of satellites.Bringing stray satellites into orbit: Through the SpaDeX mission, ISRO is also working on the technology to bring those satellites back to their designated orbit, which stray from their path due to technical faults.What is the docking process?The docking process is an important technique in space missions, in which two spacecraft are brought very close to each other in a controlled manner and connected. This process is extremely complex and requires a high level of precision and technical skills.The main purpose of docking is to exchange data by connecting two satellites, connect power sources together or carry out a particular mission. During the docking process in space, one spacecraft is brought near the other spacecraft and slowly they are connected so that there is no damage.Challenges of SpaDeX mission:Precise navigation: Accuracy of the navigation system is very important to bring two satellites very close to each other in space and connect them.Safety: There is a risk of collision during docking. Therefore, it is important to ensure that both the vehicles approach at the right distance and speed.Testing of robotic arm: The robotic arm used by ISRO is a new technology. It is a challenge to operate it successfully and catch the target.ISRO's next step:The data of the test conducted under the SpaDeX mission will be analyzed. Based on the data, it will be decided when and how to proceed with the docking process. According to ISRO, this may take a long time, because space docking technology is quite complex and it will need to be tested in several phases to develop it.Result:SpaDeX mission can prove to be an important milestone in India's space program. Through this mission, India can not only master space docking technology, but can also open new avenues for future space missions. If this mission is successful, it will develop new possibilities in the field of servicing and refueling of satellites in space, which will significantly increase India's space capability.
SpaDeX Docking Update:
— ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025
A trial attempt to reach up to 15 m and further to 3 m is done.
Moving back spacecrafts to safe distance
The docking process will be done after analysing data further.
Stay tuned for updates.#SpaDeX #ISRO