SpaDeX Mission: Both satellites are present at a distance of just 3 meters…handshake will happen soon, ISRO released VIDEO

By News Update On Jan 12, 2025

New Delhi : On one hand, ISRO is close to creating history with its Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission. The two satellites included in it are now present in the orbit at a distance of just 3 meters. Earlier the distance between these two satellites was 15 meters. The specific objective of this Space Docking Experiment Mission is to demonstrate India's docking technology in space, which will prove to be very important for the country's future space efforts.

Please note that last Friday evening the distance between these satellites was 1.5 kilometers. In this regard, the space agency had said in a post on 'X' that, “All sensors are being evaluated.” “The condition of the spacecraft is normal.” However, ISRO then did not make any commitment regarding the date of conducting the 'docking' experiments that would integrate the satellites in space.

SpaDeX Docking Update:
SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other! 🛰️🛰️
#SPADEX #ISRO pic.twitter.com/RICiEVP6qB
— ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025

Notably, ISRO's Spadex project has already missed two deadlines announced for 'docking' experiments on January 7 and 9. ISRO successfully sent the Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission into space on December 30.

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If ISRO is to be believed, the Spadex mission is a cost-effective technology mission for docking in space using two small spacecraft which was launched through PSLV. This technology is essential for India's space ambitions such as Indian mission to the Moon, bringing back samples from the Moon, construction and operation of the Indian Space Station (BAS), etc.

SpaDeX Docking Update:
A trial attempt to reach up to 15 m and further to 3 m is done.
Moving back spacecrafts to safe distance
The docking process will be done after analysing data further.
Stay tuned for updates.#SpaDeX #ISRO
— ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025

ISRO had said in this regard, “The Spacex experiment will prove to be a milestone in advancing India's capabilities in space docking.” “Space docking is a critical technology for future space missions, including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary missions.” Through this mission, India is poised to become the fourth country in the world to have space docking technology.

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Let us inform you that ISRO had successfully launched the ambitious Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission on December 30. The PSLV C60 rocket then lifted off from the first launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota carrying two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) and 24 payloads. And about 15 minutes after launch, two small spacecraft weighing about 220 kg were released into a circular orbit of 475 kilometers.