Published on: April 23, 2025

SPADEX MISSION

SPADEX MISSION

NEWS – Second successful docking of two Indian satellites – SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target)

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Full Form: Space Docking Experiment
  • Conducted by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
  • Purpose: Technology demonstration of autonomous satellite docking and undocking in space.

Details of the Mission

  • Satellites Involved:
    • SDX01: Chaser Satellite
    • SDX02: Target Satellite
    • Each satellite weighs approx. 220 kg
  • Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C60
  • Orbit:
    • Circular orbit at 460 km altitude
    • Inclination: 45 degrees

Objectives of SpaDeX

  1. Primary Objective
  • Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking between two spacecraft in low-Earth orbit.
  1. Secondary Objectives
  • Electric Power Transfer: Test power transfer between docked spacecraft – vital for future in-orbit servicing missions.
  • Composite Control Systems: Develop and validate joint control of docked satellites.
  • Post-Undocking Payload Operation: Ensure functional operations after undocking – useful for deep space exploration.

Global Significance

  • India becomes the 4th country to achieve successful satellite docking in space, following:
    • United States
    • Russia
    • China