30-Dec-2024

Space Docking Experiment Mission

Science & Technology

Why in News? 

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up to conclude the year with the launch of PSLV C60/SpaDex. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will deploy two satellites, Chaser and Target, into orbit. 

 About SpaDeX Mission 

  • The Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), initiated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), marks a significant leap in the development of autonomous space docking capabilities. 

Mission Highlights 

  • The mission utilizes PSLV-C60 as the launch vehicle. 
  • It involves two small spacecraft, Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02), to demonstrate in-orbit docking technology. 

Significance 

  • This technology is a critical stepping stone for advanced space initiatives, including future lunar missions. 
  • It lays the foundation for the development of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and other ambitious space exploration projects. 

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) 

The PSLV, India’s third-generation launch vehicle, is the first to incorporate liquid propulsion stages, earning a reputation as a reliable workhorse for Indian space missions. 

  • Achievements: Since its first successful launch in 1994, PSLV has completed 39 consecutive successful missions by 2017, deploying 48 Indian and 209 international satellites. Notable missions include Chandrayaan-1 (2008) and Mars Orbiter Mission (2013). 
  • Design: A four-stage system comprising a solid rocket motor (1st and 3rd stages) and liquid engines (2nd and 4th stages) ensures efficient satellite deployment.