• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully performed the docking of satellites as part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) on January 16. ISRO announced that post docking, control of two satellites as a single object was successful.

• With the successful docking of satellites, India has become the fourth country after the US, Russia and China to accomplish the feat.

• ISRO had successfully launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission on December 30, 2024.

• The PSLV C60 rocket carrying two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), along with 24 payloads, had lifted off from the first launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, and about 15 minutes after liftoff, the two small spacecraft weighing about 220 kg each were launched into a 475-km circular orbit as intended.

• On January 12, ISRO brought the two spacecraft to three metres and then moved them back to safe distance in its trial attempt to dock the satellites.

Significance of SpaDeX

• The Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) is a complex process where two spacecraft connect while orbiting the Earth. 

• The SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of in-space docking using two small spacecraft that was launched by PSLV.

• In space, docking technology is essential when multiple rocket launches are required to achieve common mission objectives. 

• Docking systems allow two spacecraft to connect in orbit, enabling critical operations like assembling space stations, refuelling, or transferring astronauts and cargo. 

• The SpaDeX is a pivotal project by ISRO designed to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking using two small satellites. 

• The primary objectives of SpaDeX are to develop and demonstrate the technology for rendezvous and docking using two small spacecraft, and to demonstrate controllability in the docked condition, showing the potential for extending the life of the target spacecraft. Additionally, the mission aims to test power transfer between the docked spacecraft.

• The secondary objectives also include post-docking activities where the spacecraft will perform independent payload operations.

• SpaDeX will serve as a milestone in advancing India’s capabilities in space docking, a critical technology for future space missions including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary missions. 

• By mastering rendezvous and docking technologies, ISRO is set to enhance its operational flexibility and expand its mission horizons

• This technology is essential for some of India’s space ambitions like Indian on the Moon, getting samples from the Moon (Chandrayaan-4 mission), and building and operating the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.

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