Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission

Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission: ISRO has successfully demonstrated all capabilities required for rendezvous, docking, and undocking operations in a circular orbit.

• About Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) Mission: PSLV-C60 launched the SpaDeX satellites (SDX01 and SDX02) and 24 other payloads on December 30, 2024, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota.
• Docking: The satellites were successfully docked on January 16, 2025 — making India the fourth country after the U.S., Russia, and China to achieve this feat.
• Feasible Window: The in-orbit performance of the docked satellites was analysed, identifying a window between March 10 and March 25, 2025, for undocking.
• Future Plans: Further experiments with satellites planned in the coming days.
• Mission Significance:

o Technology Demonstration: Developed and demonstrated technology for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking.

o Future Missions: Critical for sending astronauts to the Moon, sample return missions, and developing the Indian Space Station.

o Other Objectives: Demonstrated the transfer of electric power between docked spacecraft — crucial for applications like in-space robotics, composite spacecraft control, and payload operations post-undocking.