ISRO’s SpaDeX docking experiment postponed to January 9

The experiment of docking two satellites in space by ISRO, the SpaDex mission, is now postponed to January 9th. Earlier the task was scheduled for tomorrow morning. In its social media site X, ISRO has informed that based on an abort scenario identified today, the docking process needed further validation through ground simulations. That is the reason why docking is now rescheduled for January 9th. 

Docking two satellites moving in an orbit requires complex orbital manoeuvres. ISRO will use onboard propulsion systems on one of the two satellites to reduce the gap between the two satellites in space at a rate of 10 meters per second. The gap between the two satellites placed in the same orbit will be reduced from 20 kms to 5 kms. 

An inter satellite radio frequency link will be activated to allow communication between the two satellites. After this real time data exchange of position will be



possible to enable coupling of two satellites at a controlled speed of 10 mm per second. Several new sensors developed by ISRO for this mission will play a key role in guiding the docking of two satellites in space.

The Chaser satellite will hug the Target satellite with the help of latches and clamps on both sides. A ring on the chaser satellite will retract and pull the target satellite to tighten the hold.  Once docking is accomplished, power transfer will be executed when electricity flows from one satellite to another to power a heater. Both satellites will be controlled by a single control system. The docking operation is essential for future missions like Chandrayaan 4 and Bhartiya Antriksh station. This technology is needed for satellite servicing, satellite repairs in space and space station operations. India will be the fourth country in the world to acquire this technology.