The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched the SpaDex mission aboard PSLV-C60 from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This mission demonstrates crucial space docking technology essential for future projects like Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan. The final docking is scheduled for January 7, 2025.

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• SpaDex’s Goal: Demonstrates space docking technology using two small spacecraft, SDX01 and SDX02.
• Launch Details: PSLV-C60 successfully launched SpaDex and other payloads on December 18, 2024.
• Docking Timeline: The final docking of spacecraft is planned for January 7, 2025.
• Importance for Chandrayaan-4: Chandrayaan-4 requires docking in both Earth and Moon orbits for mission success.
• Cost-Effective Tech: SpaDex demonstrates low-cost technology for space docking.
• Critical for Gaganyaan: Docking tech is vital for the manned Gaganyaan mission and the Indian Space Station.
• Minister’s Remarks: Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed SpaDex as a tribute to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and a leap towards ‘Viksit Bharat.’
• Global Milestone: India becomes the fourth country to achieve space docking technology with the ‘Bharatiya Docking System.’