On Thursday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed the successful space de-docking of its SpaDeX mission, achieving a key milestone for India’s space exploration ambitions.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh congratulated the ISRO team, calling the achievement of the ‘SPADEX satellites incredible de-docking’ a proud moment for the nation.
“Congrats team #ISRO. And heartening for every Indian! #SPADEX Satellites accomplished the unbelievable De-Docking… This paves the way for smooth conduct of ambitious future missions including the Bharatiya Antriksha Station, Chandrayaan 4 & Gaganyaan. PM Sh @narendramodi’s continuous patronage keeps the spirits soaring,” Singh posted on X.
Precision De-Docking Process
The de-docking process followed a precise sequence, leading to the separation of the SDX-01 (Chaser) and SDX-02 (Target) satellites.
These satellites were launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on 30 December 2024.
The operation involved key maneuvers, including the extension of SDX-2, the controlled release of Capture Lever 3, and the disengagement of the Capture Lever in SDX-2.
Following these steps, a decapture command executed in both satellites, leading to their successful separation.
Earlier, on 16 January, ISRO had successfully docked the two SPADEX satellites, positioning India among an elite group of nations – alongside China, Russia, and the United States – with space docking technology.
ISRO highlighted that the SpaDeX mission showcases India’s expertise in spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking – capabilities crucial for future developments in satellite servicing, space station operations, and deep-space missions.
As a cost-effective technology demonstrator, SpaDeX plays a crucial role in enabling India’s long-term space goals, including lunar exploration, sample return missions, and the construction of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS).
It also supports missions requiring multiple rocket launches to achieve common objectives.
The UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) developed the SpaDeX spacecraft, with contributions from other ISRO centers, including VSSC, LPSC, SAC, IISU, and LEOS.
