North News
Chandigarh, December 31
India’s space programme marked a significant achievement on Monday as ISRO successfully launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) aboard a PSLV-C60 rocket. The mission, launched from Sriharikota’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 10 pm on Monday, demonstrated the feasibility of in-space docking using two small spacecraft. ISRO Chairman S Somanath hailed the success, stating : “The PSLV-C60 has placed the satellites in the right orbit. Congratulations to the entire team for this remarkable accomplishment.”
SpaDeX is a cost-effective technology demonstrator essential for future Indian missions, including a manned Moon mission, sample returns, and the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). By developing in-space docking technology, India moves closer to joining the elite group of nations with such capabilities. The two 220 kg spacecraft were independently launched into a 470 km orbit. Using precise velocity adjustments, the spacecraft will approach and dock in phases, culminating in the transfer of power between them. After undocking, the satellites will perform payload operations for up to two years. BJP President and Union Health Minister J P Nadda applauded ISRO scientists in a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Heartiest congratulations to @isro on the SpaDeX mission. India takes a significant leap in space docking technology, paving the way for future missions. We are immensely proud of Team ISRO.”
