Prateeksha Thakur
In a major leap for India’s space ambitions, ISRO is all set to launch the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) tonight at 10:00:15 PM IST. This historic mission, riding aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, will lift off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, aiming to achieve something only a few countries have accomplished—docking two spacecraft in orbit.
At the heart of SpaDeX are two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), which will be placed in a 470 km orbit. Once in space, these satellites will autonomously locate each other, align, and dock—a process that requires pinpoint precision. After docking, they will exchange power and later separate to test how well their onboard systems function after undocking.
What makes this mission special is its homegrown technology. From the docking mechanism to advanced sensors like the Laser Range Finder (LRF) and inter-satellite communication links, SpaDeX is a testament to India’s growing expertise in space innovation. These technologies aren’t just for show—they’re vital for future human spaceflights, satellite maintenance, and ambitious projects like lunar exploration.
With this launch, India is on the verge of joining an elite club of nations capable of orbital docking. The success of SpaDeX will not only boost India’s space program but also pave the way for groundbreaking missions like Chandrayaan-4.
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