Summary:
By successfully de-docking its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites, India has achieved a remarkable breakthrough in space technology, marking a crucial advancement in future space missions. Announcing the completion of this intricate maneuver on Thursday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) emphasised India's expanding proficiency in spacecraft docking and separation.
Calling the mission’s success "heartening for every Indian," Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Mr. Jitendra Singh, applauded the ISRO team for their accomplishment. Acknowledging Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s role in motivating the scientific community, he highlighted how this success lays the groundwork for ambitious endeavours like the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan. The careful execution of the de-docking process facilitated the separation of SDX-01 (Chaser) and SDX-02 (Target) satellites, which had been launched aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C60 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on December 30, 2024. With India achieving a successful docking on January 16, 2025, it became the fourth country, following China, Russia and the United States, to showcase this capability. Showcasing India's growing expertise in spacecraft rendezvous, docking and undocking, SpaDeX was developed by the UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) with contributions from multiple ISRO centres. This technology is vital for satellite servicing, space station operations and interplanetary missions, including human spaceflight and lunar sample return missions, solidifying India's position in advanced space exploration.
Source: IBEF
Disclaimer:
The information on this website comes from the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), a reliable source for thorough insights into numerous areas of the Indian economy. While we aim to offer accurate and up-to-date information, the views, opinions and analyses stated herein are solely those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily represent IBEF's official stance or position. Readers should check information from credible sources and use their own discretion when relying on content provided on this site. We assume no responsibility