ISRO's SpaDeX Mission to Achieve Historic Satellite Docking on January 7
India’s Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) is set to make history on January 7, 2025, as the Chaser and Target satellites are scheduled to dock in orbit. This milestone will place India among the elite nations capable of on-orbit satellite docking, showcasing its growing prowess in space technology.
The SpaDeX satellites, launched on December 30, 2024, have been steadily closing the gap between them, initially separated by 20 kilometers. Now in the final docking phase, inter-satellite radio communication and precise propulsion systems will ensure accurate positioning for a safe connection. ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite Centre Director, M. Sankaran, highlighted the significance of this maneuver, which involves a soft, hug-like docking mechanism.
This groundbreaking event marks a crucial step toward advanced satellite servicing and India’s ambitious plans for the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, the nation’s proposed space station. The mission represents years of meticulous planning and reaffirms India’s commitment to innovation in space exploration.
Space enthusiasts worldwide can witness this historic achievement live on ISRO’s official YouTube channel at 9:00 AM IST on January 7. Join the celebration of India’s entry into the global elite of space-faring nations.
