The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) on January 16, 2025, making India the fourth country to achieve satellite docking after the US, Russia, and China. This historic achievement strengthens India’s position in advanced space technology.

BulletsIn

• SpaDeX mission launched on December 30, 2024, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre via PSLV-C60.
• Two satellites, SDX01 Chaser and SDX02 Target, demonstrated successful docking in a 475-km circular orbit.
• Chaser satellite used sensors like Laser Range Finder and Proximity and Docking Sensor for precision docking.
• Target satellite equipped with a multispectral payload for natural resource monitoring and a radiation database.
• ISRO’s POEM-4 module carried 24 technology experiments, including CROPS for plant cultivation in microgravity.
• Docking capability critical for future missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035.
• Third launch pad approved at Sriharikota for heavier Next Generation Launch Vehicles, to be ready by 2028.
• ISRO’s new docking system is androgynous, similar to international standards but uses fewer motors.
• Technology supports multi-module assembly in space, vital for India’s upcoming space station and lunar missions.
• SpaDeX demonstrates India’s growing expertise in autonomous satellite docking and space mission complexity.