ISRO Hopes For Third-Time's Charm: SpaDeX Satellites Reach 3-Meter Milestone; Historic Docking Today

SpaDeX Mission: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for its third attempt to dock two satellites from the SpaDeX mission in space on Sunday. On Sunday, the satellites, Chaser and Target, were maneuvered to just 15 meters apart, edging closer to an ‘exciting handshake.’ During trial, the two satellites were brought within three meters of each other before being safely separated.

ISRO previously postponed the docking attempts on January 7 and January 9 due to the satellites failing to achieve the necessary alignment. 

Sharing an update on X (formerly Twitter), ISRO said, "At 15 meters, we see each other clearer and clearer. We are just 50 feet away for an exciting handshake." The two satellites of ISRO's SpaDeX mission, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), are reported to be in good condition as they prepare for docking 

SpaDeX Docking Update:

SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other!

#SPADEX #ISRO pic.twitter.com/RICiEVP6qB — ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025

The PSLV C60 rocket, carrying two satellites weighing 220 kilograms each, was successfully launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The satellites were placed into a 475-kilometre circular orbit as planned. The mission, launched on December 30, aims to showcase in-space docking technology using small satellites.

A successful SpaDeX mission will position India as the fourth country to master the advanced technologies essential for future space endeavors, including the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and a crewed moon landing. Currently, only the US, Russia, and China possess this capability.

What Is Space Docking? 

Space docking is a complex process where two spacecraft connect while orbiting Earth. It requires precise alignment and advanced technology. Docking is when two space objects come together and connect.

Mastering docking is vital for future missions like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and landing astronauts on the moon. 

Why ISRO’s Space Docking Mission Is Significant 

The SpaDeX mission marks a major step for India’s space program. Its key objective is to demonstrate the transfer of electric power between two docked satellites. This is crucial for projects like robotic missions and the construction of India’s planned space station, BAS. 

Docking technology will also play a vital role in missions requiring multiple rockets to work together. For long-term goals, such as missions to Mars, it will enable spacecraft assembly and refueling in space.