ISRO’s PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission

December 24, 2024

The PSLV-C60/SPADEX mission is scheduled for launch on December 30, 2024, at 9:58 PM IST, at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has confirmed these details through social media announcements. The mission aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology, vital for future lunar explorations and the establishment of India’s Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).

Mission Objectives

The primary objective of the PSLV-C60/SPADEX mission is to showcase the docking and undocking capabilities of two small spacecraft, designated SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target). These spacecraft will operate in low-Earth orbit. The mission also seeks to test power transfer between the docked units, supporting future advancements in in-space robotics.

Launch Vehicle and Preparation

The PSLV-C60 launch vehicle has been fully integrated and positioned at the First Launch Pad in Sriharikota. This step marks the final preparations for the satellite integration and the imminent launch. The spacecraft will be deployed into a 470 km circular orbit, with a planned separation distance of 10-20 km post-launch.

Once in orbit, the two spacecraft will align and perform the docking manoeuvre. Following successful docking, the mission will test the power transfer system, which is crucial for future missions involving cooperative spacecraft. After completing the docking tests, the spacecraft will undock and carry out separate tasks for a duration of up to two years.

Indigenous Technology Development

Key technologies for this mission have been developed in India, including docking mechanisms, sensors, and power transfer systems. The SpaDeX spacecraft were meticulously designed at the UR Rao Satellite Centre, with integration and testing conducted at Ananth Technologies in Bengaluru. This mission marks step towards enhancing India’s capabilities in space exploration.

GKToday Notes:
PSLV-C60: PSLV-C60 is a launch vehicle developed by ISRO. It aims to deploy spacecraft into low-Earth orbit. The mission demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in space technology.
SPADEX: SPADEX stands for Space Docking Experiment. It involves two small spacecraft testing docking technology. This mission is crucial for future lunar exploration and space station development.
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): BAS is India’s proposed space station. It aims to support long-term human spaceflight missions. BAS will enhance India’s capabilities in space science and exploration.
UR Rao Satellite Centre: The UR Rao Satellite Centre is located in Bengaluru. It designs and develops satellite technology for ISRO. The centre plays a key role in India’s space missions.

« Previous Post Next Post »