The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on Monday that the docking experiment of its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites, originally scheduled for January 7, has been postponed to January 9.
In a post on X, ISRO stated, "The SpaDeX Docking scheduled on (January) 7th is now postponed to 9th. The docking process requires further validation through ground simulations based on an abort scenario identified today."
ISRO also released a video stating, "Sharing SPADEX onboard video showcasing SDX02 launch restraint release & docking ring extension."
About SpaDeX Mission
The SpaDeX mission, launched on 30 December 2024 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, is a cost-effective technology demonstrator aimed at achieving in-space docking using two small satellites. ISRO's PSLV-C60 rocket carried two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), weighing approximately 220 kg each, into a 475-km circular orbit.
Last week, ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath praised the mission, saying, "Congratulations to the entire team of the PSLV project who put the satellites in the right orbit. Also, the SpaDeX team who worked on a very innovative, novel, cost-effective docking demonstration mission using two small satellite bus architectures."
Dr. Somanath further highlighted that the mission "successfully accomplished all objectives" and noted that the docking process was initially expected to conclude by January 7. However, the postponement allows for additional ground simulations following an identified abort scenario.
The SpaDeX mission represents a significant milestone for India’s space programme. It is a critical step toward achieving advanced space capabilities, including human space exploration, sample return missions, and the development of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). Successful demonstration of in-space docking will position India as the fourth country globally to achieve this technology.
The mission also carried 24 payloads from various academic institutions, startups, industries, research laboratories, and ISRO centres. ISRO confirmed the successful deployment of the satellites’ solar panels after launch.