Successful Second Docking: ISRO successfully completed the second docking of its SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) satellites as part of the SpaDeX mission.
Technology Demonstration: SpaDeX is a mission to validate the capability of docking and undocking two small satellites in low-Earth orbit.
ISRO’s Achievement: With this achievement, India became the fourth country after the U.S., Russia, and China to conduct satellite docking operations.
Mission Objectives: Primary objective is to demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft. Secondary objectives include electric power transfer between docked spacecraft, composite spacecraft control systems, and payload operations after undocking.
Future Mission Implications: SpaDeX is critical for future Indian space missions, including crewed spaceflights, space station modules, and satellite servicing.
Launched on PSLV-C60: The satellites were launched on December 30, 2024, via PSLV-C60. The first docking occurred on January 16, 2025, followed by undocking on March 13, 2025.
Satellite Details: Each satellite weighs around 220 kg and was launched into a 460 km circular orbit with a 45-degree inclination.
Important for future: SpaDeX is essential for manned lunar missions, sample return from Moon and Indian space station construction.
