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The PSLV-C60 mission, scheduled for December 30, 2024, comprises two primary components: the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) and the PSLV Orbital Experiment Module-4 (POEM-4).

About 'SpaDeX' or Space Docking Experiment mission:

Space docking is the process where two spacecraft connect with each other while in orbit.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is attempting to mate two satellites in the near vacuum of space, both of which would travel at a velocity ten times the speed of a bullet - a tough challenge to arrest two orbiting space assets and nudge them into a single spacecraft.

To date, only Russia, US, and China have mastered the complex technology and none share the intricacies of this process.

How ISRO will dock two satellites?

The PSLV rocket will carry two specially designed satellites each weighing about 220 kg and then attempt docking and undocking at 470 kilometers above the Earth. The space agency will use a specially designed space docking mechanism called the 'Bhartiya Docking System' which meets the International Docking System Standard (IDSS) developed by NASA.

Why this mission is important?

SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of ‘in-space docking’ using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV, ISRO said in an explainer on the subject.

This technology is essential for India’s space ambitions such as Indian on Moon, sample return from the Moon, the building and operation of Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).

In-space docking technology is essential when multiple rocket launches are required to achieve common mission objectives.

Why POEM is important?

PS4-Orbital Experiment Module, designated as POEM, refers to the usage of the spent fourth stage of the Polar Synchronous Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

It provides an opportunity for the scientific community to carry out certain in-orbit microgravity experiments for an extended duration of up to three months using the POEM platform, which otherwise would end up as space debris immediately after the mission objective of injecting the primary payloads of the mission. Such experimental payloads serve as precursor experiments to validate various proof-of-concept and enabling technologies for future missions.

 

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