The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to end 2024 with a monumental achievement that could redefine India’s role in the global space race. On December 30, 2024, at 9:58 PM IST, ISRO will launch its highly ambitious Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission aboard the PSLV-C60 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission will mark India’s first demonstration of in-space docking technology a critical step for realizing future interplanetary missions and building a national space station.
The SpaDeX mission involves two meticulously designed satellites, SDX01 (the Chaser) and SDX02 (the Target), each weighing approximately 220 kg. These spacecraft will be launched into a 470 km circular orbit with a 55-degree inclination. Shortly after liftoff, the satellites will separate in sequence SDX02 first, followed by SDX01. From there, the Chaser satellite will undertake a series of intricate maneuvers, gradually reducing the distance between the two satellites. The ultimate goal is to achieve a successful docking, expected in early January 2025.
This pioneering mission represents more than a technological triumph; it places India in an elite group of spacefaring nations, joining the ranks of China, Russia, and the United States, who have previously mastered this challenging feat. The ability to dock spacecraft in orbit is essential for enabling long-term space exploration, such as lunar missions, asteroid mining, and setting up a national space station. It also paves the way for India’s Gaganyaan program to send astronauts deeper into space and could support ambitious projects like lunar sample return missions.
ISRO’s PSLV-C60, a trusted workhorse of India’s space program, has been meticulously prepared for this landmark launch. The rocket has undergone integration and has been moved to the First Launch Pad for final checks. The space agency has emphasized that this is a cost-effective technology demonstration, showcasing India’s capability to innovate within constrained budgets a hallmark of ISRO’s approach to space exploration.
