New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to launch its highly anticipated "Space Docking Experiment" (SpaDeX) today, December 30, 2024, at 9:58 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This mission will utilize the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) to deploy two small satellites designed for this innovative experiment.
The primary aim of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and showcase the technology necessary for the rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft—SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target)—in a low-Earth circular orbit. ISRO emphasized the complexity of this mission, stating, "In addition, SpaDeX, because of its small size and mass, is even more challenging due to the finer precision required for the rendezvous and docking maneuvers compared to docking two large spacecraft." This mission is crucial as it lays the groundwork for autonomous docking technologies needed for future lunar missions, such as Chandrayaan-4, without depending on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) from Earth.
Currently, only three nations—the United States, Russia, and China—possess the capability to dock spacecraft in outer space. With SpaDeX, India aims to become the fourth country in this exclusive club. The successful execution of this mission would mark a significant milestone in India's space exploration endeavors.
Docking refers to the precise alignment and physical connection of two spacecraft in space. The SpaDeX satellites will operate at an altitude of 470 km with a 55° inclination. Initially positioned close together, they will gradually drift apart over 24 hours before executing a series of maneuvers that will bring them closer until they achieve docking.
Both SpaDeX spacecraft are equipped with a differential GNSS-based Satellite Positioning System (SPS), which provides essential Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solutions. A novel Relative Orbit Determination Processor (RODP) is included in the SPS receiver to accurately determine the relative position and velocity of both satellites.
The SpaDeX spacecraft were developed by the UR Rao Satellite Centre with contributions from various ISRO centers. Following extensive integration and testing at Ananth Technologies in Bangalore, the satellites are now ready for launch after passing all necessary clearances.
The Target spacecraft will utilize its propulsion system to maintain a distance of 20 km from the Chaser during initial maneuvers before gradually reducing this distance to facilitate docking.The launch will be streamed live on YouTube starting at 11 AM EST (1600 GMT), allowing enthusiasts worldwide to witness this historic event.
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