Source: BS
Context: India’s SpaDeX mission, intended to develop and demonstrate technology required to dock and undock spacecraft in space, will be launched using PSLV-C60 on December 30.
About SpaDeX Mission:
- What it is: SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a cost-effective technology demonstrator by ISRO for in-space docking of two small spacecraft.
- Launch vehicle: PSLV-C60 will carry two spacecraft (Chaser: SDX01 and Target: SDX02) into low Earth orbit (470 km).
- Objectives:
- Primary:
- Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two spacecraft.
- Secondary:
- Transfer electric power between docked spacecraft for future robotic applications.
- Composite spacecraft control and post-docking payload operations.
- Primary:
- New Technologies:
- Docking Mechanism: Low-impact androgynous docking system with two motors.
- Sensor Suite: Advanced sensors like Laser Range Finder (LRF), Proximity and Docking Sensor (PDS), and video monitors for precise docking.
- RODP Processor: GNSS-based system for accurate inter-satellite position and velocity determination.
- ISL Communication: Autonomous inter-satellite link for communication and real-time state sharing.
- Significance of Mission:
- Technological Milestone: Positions India as the fourth country to develop space docking technology.
- Space Exploration: Paves the way for Chandrayaan-4, space stations, and sample return missions.
- Cost-Effective Innovation: Develops indigenous, scalable solutions for complex space operations.
- Global Collaboration: Adopts standards similar to the International Docking System, fostering future international cooperation.
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