India’s SpaDeX mission, designed to develop and demonstrate docking and undocking technologies for spacecraft in space, is set to launch aboard PSLV-C60 on December 30.
SpaDeX Mission
- SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is an innovative and cost-effective technology demonstrator by ISRO, aimed at achieving in-space docking of two small spacecraft.
- Launch Vehicle: The mission will use PSLV-C60 to deploy two spacecraft, Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02), into a low Earth orbit at 470 km altitude.
Objectives
- Primary Objective:
- Successfully demonstrate the processes of spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking.
- Secondary Objectives:
- Enable electric power transfer between docked spacecraft for potential robotic applications.
- Showcase control of a composite spacecraft and manage post-docking payload operations.
New Technologies
- Docking Mechanism: Features a low-impact androgynous docking system powered by two motors.
- Sensor Suite: Incorporates advanced tools like the Laser Range Finder (LRF), Proximity and Docking Sensor (PDS), and video monitors for precise operations.
- RODP Processor: Utilizes a GNSS-based system for accurate determination of inter-satellite position and velocity.
- ISL Communication: Establishes autonomous inter-satellite links for communication and real-time sharing of states.
Significance of the Mission
- Technological Advancement: Establishes India as the fourth nation to develop in-space docking technology.
- Future Space Exploration: Lays the groundwork for ambitious projects like Chandrayaan-4, space stations, and sample-return missions.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Demonstrates indigenous, scalable technologies for complex space operations.
- Global Collaboration: Adheres to international docking standards, promoting opportunities for global partnerships in space missions.
