ISRO launches SpaDeX mission to test docking, aims at Chandrayaan-4, Gaganyaan
PTC News Desk: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the SpaDeX mission on Monday along with 24 experiments packed in with the launch vehicle.
The announcement was made by Somanath after the successful launch of PSLV-C60, which carried the SpaDeX and other payloads. Following the launch, Somanath highlighted the importance of docking for the Chandrayaan-4 mission, confirming that the final docking is expected to occur around January 7, 2025.
"Chandrayaan-4 has multiple modules, five in total, which will be launched at different times and integrated into two separate modules. These modules need to reach orbit and then dock both in Earth orbit and Moon orbit. Docking is essential for Chandrayaan-4. This mission aims to go to the Moon, land there, return to Earth, and complete the journey successfully," Somanath explained.
The SpaDeX mission, ISRO's year-end project, is historic as it aims to achieve the rare feat of docking or merging two satellites in space. The project is a cost-effective technology demonstration mission for in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV.
The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology required for the rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target) in low-Earth circular orbit. Docking technology is crucial for long-term missions like Chandrayaan-4, the planned Indian space station, and the eventual manned Gaganyaan mission.
- PTC NEWS
