ISRO Docks SpaDeX Satellites in Space:
What is Space Docking?
• Space docking is the process of bringing two fast-moving spacecraft into the same orbit, aligning them, and joining them either manually or autonomously.
• Enables assembly of heavy spacecraft not supported by a single launch vehicle.
• Essential for setting up space stations, resupplying them, and future crewed lunar missions.
Why is ISRO's Docking Mission Important?
• Makes India the fourth country after the USA, Russia, and China to demonstrate docking capabilities.
• Critical for future missions:
-Bharatiya Antriksha Station (India's space station) by 2035.
-Chandrayaan-4 (sample return mission from the Moon).
-Future crewed lunar missions.
How was the Docking Carried Out?
• Satellites Involved:
-Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02), each weighing 220 kg.
• Procedure:
-Satellites were progressively brought closer (5 km→ 1.5 km→ 500 m→ 225 m→ 15 m→ 3 m).
-Docking involved aligning, extending docking rings, and locking them in orbit.
Satellites operated as one composite object after docking. with shared commands and electrical power.
• Challenges:
Historical Context: Docking Milestones
1. USA (1966): Gemini Vill docked with Agena (crewed mission, led by Neil Armstrong).
2. USSR (1967): Kosmos 186 and 188 achieved first automated, uncrewed docking.
3. China (2011): Shenzhou 8 docked with Tiangong 1. First crewed docking followed in 2012.
What is the Bharatiya Docking System?
Design:
• Key Sensors
- Laser Range Finder -Rendezvous Sensor
- Proximity and Docking Sensor
Future of ISRO Docking Capabilities
• Space Station (2035):
- Will involve joining 5 robotic modules in orbit (first module launch in 2028).
• Chandrayaan-4:
- Docking will be crucial for the Moon sample return mission, with modules for propulsion, lander, ascender, transfer, and re-entry.
• Human Moon Mission:
