The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a historic milestone by successfully docking two Indian satellites in space on Thursday morning. This marks India's entry into the elite club of nations capable of performing spacecraft docking, joining Russia, the USA, and China.
A Breakthrough Moment
ISRO announced the success of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) at 10 a.m. "Spacecraft docking successfully completed! A historic moment," read the announcement, detailing the process from a 15-meter manoeuvre to a precise 3-meter hold point, culminating in a stable and secure connection between the two satellites.
"A trial attempt to reach up to 15 m and further to 3 m is done. Moving back space crafts to a safe distance. The docking process will be done after analysing data further," the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said
Indigenous Technology Triumph
Central to this achievement is the Bhartiya Docking System, an indigenously developed technology. The satellites, orbiting 475 kilometers above Earth, moved closer at an extremely cautious speed of 10 millimeters per second before the final "exciting handshake." This success is expected to play a pivotal role in India's future missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the Bhartiya Antariksha station.
Challenges and Perseverance
This triumph came after weeks of trials and setbacks. On January 12, the satellites reached within three meters of each other during a trial but were moved back for further analysis. The methodical approach and persistence of ISRO scientists have now culminated in a resounding success.
A Leap Towards the Future
Launched on December 30, 2024, aboard the PSLV rocket, the SpaDeX mission has demonstrated India’s readiness for advanced space missions requiring docking capabilities. This milestone opens doors to deeper exploration, ambitious projects, and a strengthened position in global space technology.
Congratulations to the entire ISRO team and the nation for this monumental achievement!