NEW DELHI, Dec 30: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its year-end mission, the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), on Monday, December 30, 2024. The mission, which will be launched at 10:15 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, aims to demonstrate India’s capability in satellite docking in space, a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey.
ISRO confirmed the launch timing in a post on X (formerly Twitter): “Tonight at precisely 10:00:15 PM, PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads are set for liftoff. SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a pioneering mission to establish India’s capability in orbital docking, a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions.”
The mission will see the launch of two specially designed satellites, named Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02), each weighing approximately 220 kg. These satellites will attempt to dock at an altitude of 470 kilometers above Earth, marking a critical technological achievement. Currently, only three countries — Russia, the United States, and China — have successfully mastered space docking techniques.
The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft in low Earth circular orbit. The mission will employ a specially designed docking system that meets international standards, showcasing India’s innovative approach to space technology.
In addition to the docking experiment, ISRO’s PSLV rocket will carry 24 scientific experiments in its fourth stage (POEM-4), enhancing the mission’s scientific value. This mission represents a pivotal step forward for India in advancing its space exploration capabilities and positioning itself as a key player in the global space industry.
