ISRO to Resume SpaDeX Mission from March 15: All You Need to Know

🔭 ISRO to Resume SpaDeX Mission from March 15: Key Details

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to resume experiments on the SpaDeX mission starting March 15. The Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) is a crucial step towards enhancing India's space docking technology for future missions such as Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharat Antariksha Station.

🚀 What is the SpaDeX Mission?

• The mission involves two satellites: SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target).
• Each satellite weighs approximately 220 kg.
• The mission was launched on December 30 to develop and test satellite docking technology.
• The satellites successfully docked on January 16 after multiple attempts.
• The unified satellite is now in an elliptical orbit, with a 10 to 15-day experimental window every two months.

🛰️ Next Steps in SpaDeX Mission

ISRO will now shift its focus to the separation and re-docking of SDX01 and SDX02. The next experimental phase involves:

• Undocking the satellites from each other in orbit.
• Testing re-docking procedures for future space station operations.
• Demonstrating electrical power transfer between the satellites before separation.
• Conducting multiple experiments with the available propellant onboard.

📅 Timeline & Future Experiments

Phase	Key Activities	Expected Date
🔹 Undocking	Separation of SDX01 & SDX02	March 15
🔹 Re-docking	Reconnection in orbit	March 2025
🔹 Power Transfer Tests	Electricity sharing demonstration	Before final undocking
🔹 Additional Experiments	To be scheduled in the next operational window	Two months later

🌍 Importance of the SpaDeX Mission

• Precursor to Chandrayaan-4: The mission lays the groundwork for docking above the Moon to return lunar soil and rock samples.
• Supports Indian Space Station (Bharat Antariksha Station): The docking technology will be vital for the Indian space station planned for assembly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by 2035.
• Advances India’s Space Technology: Mastering satellite docking is critical for deep-space exploration and future interplanetary missions.

🔬 Current Developments & Simulations

ISRO is actively conducting simulated experiments in preparation for the actual separation and re-docking on March 15. With ample propellant available, ISRO will continue performing multiple experimental phases in future windows.

🔴 Conclusion

The SpaDeX mission marks a significant milestone in India’s space technology, showcasing advancements in satellite docking, space station operations, and lunar sample return missions. The upcoming March 15 experiments will further refine ISRO’s capabilities, strengthening India's position in global space exploration.