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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in its space exploration endeavors with the successful launch of the SpaDeX mission on December 30th, 2024. This ambitious project aims to demonstrate India's prowess in advanced space docking technology, a critical capability for future satellite servicing missions, the construction of a national space station, and even potential lunar exploration initiatives. The mission involves two satellites, SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target), each weighing approximately 220 kg and operating in a low-Earth orbit at an altitude of 470 kilometers. The core objective is to autonomously rendezvous and dock these spacecraft, a complex maneuver requiring precise navigation and control systems. The satellites utilize a differential GNSS-based Satellite Positioning System to ensure accurate maneuvering throughout the process.
A slight unforeseen complication arose during the mission's initial stages. According to M Sankaran, Director of URSC, the separation of the second satellite was delayed by three seconds. This seemingly minor delay has implications for the distance between the two satellites, resulting in a growing separation. By Tuesday evening following the launch, the satellites were anticipated to be approximately 20 kilometers apart. This necessitates corrective measures by ISRO engineers to arrest their drift and maneuver them into the same orbit, a testament to the precision required for such delicate orbital operations. The delay also necessitates a four-day waiting period for optimal sun orientation, a crucial factor for the success of the docking procedure. This sets the expected commencement of docking operations approximately a week after the launch, with the target date likely set for January 7th, 2025.
The docking process itself presents formidable technical challenges. The Chaser satellite will need to approach the Target satellite from a distance of up to 20 kilometers, gradually reducing their relative speed to an incredibly precise 0.036 km/h. This feat of engineering precision is particularly noteworthy considering the satellites' orbital velocity exceeding 28,800 km/h. Successfully achieving this delicate reduction in relative speed is critical for a safe and successful docking. After achieving a successful docking, the mission will continue, with the two spacecraft demonstrating various capabilities, including electrical power transfer between the spacecraft and conducting operations using their onboard payloads. This testing phase is essential for validating the technology and preparing for future, more complex missions.
The SpaDeX mission is planned to last up to two years, providing ample time for ISRO to conduct a series of experiments involving 24 different payloads. These payloads incorporate innovative technologies developed by startups and academic institutions, showcasing the collaborative nature of the project and fostering technological innovation within India’s space research ecosystem. The success of the SpaDeX mission holds significant implications for India's standing in the global space community. Achieving autonomous rendezvous and docking capabilities places India among a select group of nations—including the United States, Russia, and China—possessing this advanced space technology. This not only enhances India’s independent space exploration capabilities but also paves the way for potential collaborative international space missions, solidifying India's role as a key player in the future of space exploration and technological advancement.
Source: SpaDeX satellite separation delayed by three seconds. How it will affect docking