BENGALURU: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Thursday (16 Jan 2025) successfully performed the docking of satellites as part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). ISRO also announced that post docking, control of two satellites as a single object was successful.
The two satellites SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) which were launched by the PSLV C60 on December 30, 2024, successfully docked by ISRO. Each of these weighing approximately 220 kilograms.
These spacecrafts are androgynous in nature i.e. either of the spacecraft can act as chaser (active spacecraft) during docking. They are equipped with solar panels, lithium-ion batteries, and a robust power management system. The Attitude and Orbit Control System (AOCS) includes sensors such as star sensors, sun sensors, magnetometers and actuators like reaction wheels, magnetic torquers and thrusters.
ISRO started the mission on 30th December 2024, with the successful launch of the SpaDeX spacecrfts using Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C60, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
SpaDeX is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission designed to showcase in-space docking using two small spacecrafts launched by 62nd PSLV flight. This mission is pivotal for India’s future space ambitions, including lunar missions, sample returns, and the development of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
With the successful docking of satellites, India has become the fourth country after the US, Russia and China to accomplish the feat.
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Meanwhile, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi today approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre of ISRO at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The Third Launch Pad project envisages the establishment of the launch infrastructure at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh for the Next Generation Launch Vehicles of ISRO and also to support as standby launchpad for the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota. This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human space flight missions.
Why TLP is important
The TLP is designed to have configuration that is as universal and adaptable as possible that can support not only NGLV but also the LVM3 vehicles with Semicryogenic stage as well as scaled up configurations of NGLV. It will be realized with maximum industry participation fully utilizing ISRO’s experience in establishing the earlier launch pads and maximally sharing the existing launch complex facilities.
The Project will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight & space exploration missions.
About Launchpads
As on today, Indian Space Transportation Systems are completely reliant on two launch pads viz. First Launch Pad (FLP) & Second Launch Pad (SLP). FLP was made 30 years ago for PSLV and continues to provide launch support for PSLV & SSLV. SLP was established primarily for GSLV & LVM3 and also functions as standby for PSLV. SLP has been operational for almost 20 years and has enhanced the launch capacity towards enabling some commercial missions of PSLV/LVM3 along with the national missions including the Chandrayaan-3 mission. SLP is also getting ready to launch the human rated LVM3 for the Gaganyaan missions.
The expanded vision of Indian Space Programme include setting up of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and Indian Crewed Lunar Landing by 2040. These complex missions of ISRO needs a launchpad with all modern and sophisticated technologies. Third Launch Pad will cater to a heavier class of Next Generation Launch Vehicles and as a stand by for SLP.
