The SpaDeX mission marks a significant milestone for India, as it aims to become the fourth country globally to master space docking technology.
This achievement is crucial for future space exploration missions, including lunar and interplanetary missions that require coordinated spacecraft operations in orbit.
Photo Credit: X
As part of the mission, ISRO will use the PSLV-C60's spent fourth stage, dubbed POEM-4, as an experimental platform for conducting microgravity experiments.
A total of 24 payloads, contributed by academia and startups, will be flown during this mission. SpaDeX's success will play a key role in advancing India's capabilities in space technology, paving the way for more complex missions in the future.
Photo Credit: ISRO
ISRO PSLV-C60 Launch Live Updates:
Dec 30, 2024, 11:58 PM IST
We are now closing our ISRO PSLV-C60 Launch Live Updates. Please follow the Oneindia website for more updates.
Dec 30, 2024, 11:55 PM IST
Check out the moment when SpaDeX Lifted Off successfully. WATCH!
Dec 30, 2024, 11:39 PM IST
ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath announced that PSLV-C60 successfully launched SpaDeX and 24 payloads. He highlighted that Chandrayaan-4, with its five modules, will require docking in both Earth and Moon orbits. This mission will demonstrate essential docking technology for Chandrayaan-4, with the final docking expected around January 7th.
#WATCH | Andhra Pradesh | PSLV-C60 successfully launches SpaDeX and 24 payloads | ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath says, "Chandrayaan-4 has multiple modules, it has five modules and these modules have to be launched in different times as integrated into two separate modules. They have… pic.twitter.com/CZj8teOjtp
Taking to X, Dr. Jitendra Singh wrote, "India has made history by becoming the fourth country to develop and successfully demonstrate space docking technology with its indigenous "Bharatiya Docking System." This milestone, achieved through ISRO's SpaDeX mission, is a significant step towards India’s future space ambitions, including the Gaganyaan manned mission and the proposed Bharatiya Antriksha Station. The achievement reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" and solidifies India's growing self-reliance in space technology."
Privileged to be associated with the Department of Space at a time when Team #ISRO mesmerises the world with global wonders, one after the other. India becomes the fourth to join the select league of nations to seek Space docking, through its own indigenously developed “Bharatiya… pic.twitter.com/N9o7qID8z4
ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath announces the successful launch of PSLV-C60 for the SpaDeX mission, which successfully placed the satellites in the right orbit. He congratulated the entire PSLV project team and the SpaDeX team for their innovative, novel, and cost-effective docking demonstration using two small satellite bus architectures.
#WATCH | Andhra Pradesh | PSLV-C60 successfully launches SpaDeX and 24 payloads | ISRO Chairman Dr. S Somanath says, "I announce the successful launch of the PSLV-C60 for the SpaDeX mission...The rocket has placed the satellites in the right orbit....congratulations to the entire… pic.twitter.com/dh9SUp7CXm
ISRO Chief S. Somnath confirmed that both SpaDeX satellites are in the right orbit. The next step involves the fourth stage changing its orbit for the Poem-4 experiments, set to take place overnight, with PSLV performing as expected.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:27 PM IST
The SpaDeX satellites, chaser and target, have been deployed in space, starting an epic 10-day chase. This mission showcases India's advanced in-space docking technology, vital for future space ambitions.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:21 PM IST
ISRO SPADEX PSLV-C60 is accomplished with respect to the separation A and B Satellites. Follow-up operation will continue, says the Mission Director.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:16 PM IST
SPADEX A and SPADEX B separation are successful.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:15 PM IST
4th stage shut off. The vehicle is currently ghosting.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:09 PM IST
So far, vehicle performance is normal. The 4th stage performance started and is normal.
Dec 30, 2024, 10:08 PM IST
The mission, launched from the first launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, is carrying SpaDeX with two spacecraft as its primary payloads, in addition to 24 secondary payloads. One of the key aspects of this mission is the demonstration of in-space docking technology. This technology is crucial for India's future space ambitions, including sending humans to the Moon, bringing back lunar samples, and constructing and operating the country's own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station. The successful development of this technology will significantly contribute to India's growing presence in space exploration.
VIDEO | The mission was launched from the first launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota and carries SpaDeX with two spacecraft as the primary payloads along with 24 secondary payloads.
Renowned Indian scientist W Selvamurthy praised ISRO’s PSLV-C60 launch, calling it a crucial technology demonstration. "As we bid farewell to 2024, ISRO is launching the PSLV-C60 to test orbital docking technology," he said. The mission involves two primary payloads—a 'target' and a 'chaser'—to showcase docking capabilities. Additionally, 24 other payloads are onboard, including a biological experiment by Amity University, which is sending plant callus cells into space to study their growth in microgravity.
Dec 30, 2024, 9:43 PM IST
Spectators gather to witness ISRO make history. ISRO is set to launch PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
Dec 30, 2024, 9:42 PM IST
ISRO is set to launch PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads, tonight at 10:00:15 pm from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
#WATCH | ISRO is set to launch PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads, tonight at 10:00:15 pm from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
The POEM-4 mission will carry 24 payloads—14 from ISRO/DOS centres and 10 from academia and start-ups via IN-SPACe—marking a three-fold capacity boost for POEM.
The PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission marks ISRO's 99th launch, setting the stage for its historic 100th mission in 2025, with perfect weather conditions at Sriharikota.
Dec 30, 2024, 9:25 PM IST
Did You Know? | The SpaDeX spacecraft, developed by URSC with ISRO center support, is launch-ready after integration, testing, and clearance at Ananth Technologies, Bangalore.
India's space program experienced a minor yet intriguing delay as the Indian Space Research Organisation ( ISRO) postponed the launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) by two minutes.
India is preparing to make history with the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), a groundbreaking mission that will demonstrate satellite docking in space. Scheduled for launch on December 30, the mission is a major step forward for India's space capabilities.
PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission Live Stream: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to embark on the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) with the launch of PSLV-C60 on December 30 at 9:58 PM. This significant event will take place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, located in Sriharikota.
The SpaDeX mission, launched aboard PSLV-C60, carries 24 payloads in its POEM-4 phase, a significant advancement over its predecessor, POEM-3. These payloads include 14 from ISRO and affiliated centers, along with 10 from academic institutions and startups selected through IN-SPACe. The PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM) will transform the PSLV's fourth stage into a vital microgravity research platform for up to three months, testing new technologies and concepts for future space missions. This mission reflects the increasing collaboration between ISRO and non-governmental entities, furthering space exploration and technology development.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:55 PM IST
The SpaDeX mission's docking system is engineered for precision with a slow approach speed of about 10 mm/s to ensure a gentle connection. Its androgynous design means both the Chaser and Target spacecraft feature identical docking systems, making the process more streamlined. The system uses a peripheral approach, similar to the International Docking System Standard (IDSS) employed by other space agencies for human missions. Compact in size (450 mm), it operates with a single degree of freedom using two motors, compared to the larger IDSS system that utilizes 24 motors. Extensive test setups have been developed to verify the accuracy of the docking process and ensure the system is fully operational for the mission.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:53 PM IST
ISRO shares a fast time-lapse video!
🚀 Enjoy the fast time-lapse video!
PSLV-C60, fully integrated up to PS4 at the PIF facility for the first time, was moved to the MST at the First Launch Pad—over 3 hours captured in just a few seconds. 🛰️#ISRO#PSLVC60#SPADEXpic.twitter.com/eaje72wFDD
Amity University, Mumbai, is making a groundbreaking contribution to space research by sending spinach cells into space as part of ISRO’s SpaDeX mission. The experiment, named the Amity Plant Experimental Module in Space (APEMS), will investigate how plant cells grow and adapt in the unique environment of space. Launching aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, the mission is part of the fourth PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM-4) series. Using spinach (Spinacia oleracea) callus as a model, APEMS aims to explore growth-related changes in plant cells during space travel.
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Dec 30, 2024, 5:55 pm IST
Welcome to OneIndia's live blog, where we bring you all the latest updates on India's SpaDeX mission launch aboard the PSLV-C60.
Dec 30, 2024, 5:57 pm IST
ISRO is set to launch its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEX) mission on December 30, 2024, with the PSLV-C60 lifting off at 10:00 pm IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
Dec 30, 2024, 5:58 pm IST
ISRO's SpaDeX mission is set for a groundbreaking launch, aiming to dock two satellites, Chaser and Target, into a unified unit in space.
Dec 30, 2024, 5:59 pm IST
The PSLV-C60 rocket will launch two 400-kg satellites on December 30, marking a significant step for India’s space docking capabilities.
Dec 30, 2024, 5:59 pm IST
SpaDeX will perform a precise rendezvous at 400 km altitude, showcasing India’s growing prowess in space technology and satellite docking.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:00 pm IST
India’s SpaDeX mission is vital for future space station assembly, satellite refuelling, and potential astronaut transfers.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:02 pm IST
The docking capability demonstrated by SpaDeX could also help extend the operational life of geostationary satellites by replacing propulsion units in orbit.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:12 pm IST
Ananth Technologies, a private Indian firm, has played a pivotal role in developing the satellites for ISRO's ambitious SpaDeX mission.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:13 pm IST
SpaDeX is India’s leap into the future of space exploration, setting the stage for advanced missions like lunar exploration and interplanetary travel.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:30 pm IST
The SpaDeX mission by ISRO aims to develop and demonstrate key technologies for rendezvousing, docking, and undocking two small spacecraft in a low-Earth orbit. The primary objective is to successfully dock the Chaser (SDX01) and the Target (SDX02) spacecraft, showcasing the precision needed for such operations. In addition to this, the mission will test the transfer of electric power between the docked spacecraft, which is essential for future in-space applications like robotics. The mission also focuses on demonstrating composite spacecraft control and conducting payload operations after undocking, paving the way for more complex space missions.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:41 pm IST
The SpaDeX mission by ISRO involves a carefully orchestrated sequence for docking two spacecraft, the Target and Chaser. Initially, the spacecraft will be launched aboard PSLV-C60 into a 470 km orbit. After deployment, a small velocity difference will cause a gradual separation of 10-20 km between the spacecraft. The Target spacecraft's propulsion system will then halt this drift, achieving a "Far Rendezvous" where both spacecraft share the same orbit and velocity with a 20 km separation. The Chaser spacecraft will progressively reduce this distance, ultimately docking at 3 meters.
Once docked, a rigidisation mechanism will secure the connection, and electrical power transfer between the spacecraft will be demonstrated. Following these demonstrations, the two spacecraft will undock and separate, with each satellite operating its respective payloads for up to two years. This complex sequence highlights India's advancing space capabilities.
Dec 30, 2024, 6:44 pm IST
Launch Day is Here!: ISRO
🎉 Launch Day is Here! 🚀
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… pic.twitter.com/147ywcLP0f
PSLV-C60 will launch a pair of SpaDeX satellites into an eastward orbit, marking a milestone as the first vehicle integrated up to the PS4 stage at PIF and moved to MST/FLP for satellite assembly and launch.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:47 pm IST
ISRO's SpaDeX mission showcases cutting-edge technologies, including a docking mechanism, advanced rendezvous sensors, and power transfer systems. The mission also features an autonomous rendezvous strategy, inter-satellite communication for real-time updates, and a GNSS-based system for precise orbit determination. Due to its small size, the mission demands extremely high precision for successful docking. Simulation test beds have also been used to validate hardware and software design.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:48 pm IST
The ISRO SpaDeX mission is a crucial step for India’s space ambitions, aiming to prepare for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, enable Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return missions, and develop the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). By using a specially designed docking system that meets international standards, the mission highlights India’s innovative advancements in space technology.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:51 pm IST
Amity University, Mumbai, is making a groundbreaking contribution to space research by sending spinach cells into space as part of ISRO’s SpaDeX mission. The experiment, named the Amity Plant Experimental Module in Space (APEMS), will investigate how plant cells grow and adapt in the unique environment of space. Launching aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, the mission is part of the fourth PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM-4) series. Using spinach (Spinacia oleracea) callus as a model, APEMS aims to explore growth-related changes in plant cells during space travel.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:53 pm IST
ISRO shares a fast time-lapse video!
🚀 Enjoy the fast time-lapse video!
PSLV-C60, fully integrated up to PS4 at the PIF facility for the first time, was moved to the MST at the First Launch Pad—over 3 hours captured in just a few seconds. 🛰️#ISRO#PSLVC60#SPADEXpic.twitter.com/eaje72wFDD
The SpaDeX mission's docking system is engineered for precision with a slow approach speed of about 10 mm/s to ensure a gentle connection. Its androgynous design means both the Chaser and Target spacecraft feature identical docking systems, making the process more streamlined. The system uses a peripheral approach, similar to the International Docking System Standard (IDSS) employed by other space agencies for human missions. Compact in size (450 mm), it operates with a single degree of freedom using two motors, compared to the larger IDSS system that utilizes 24 motors. Extensive test setups have been developed to verify the accuracy of the docking process and ensure the system is fully operational for the mission.
Dec 30, 2024, 7:57 pm IST
The SpaDeX mission, launched aboard PSLV-C60, carries 24 payloads in its POEM-4 phase, a significant advancement over its predecessor, POEM-3. These payloads include 14 from ISRO and affiliated centers, along with 10 from academic institutions and startups selected through IN-SPACe. The PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM) will transform the PSLV's fourth stage into a vital microgravity research platform for up to three months, testing new technologies and concepts for future space missions. This mission reflects the increasing collaboration between ISRO and non-governmental entities, furthering space exploration and technology development.
Dec 30, 2024, 8:38 pm IST
Experience the groundbreaking SpaDeX mission in action with our captivating animation showcasing in-space docking!
🌟 PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission Update 🌟
Visualize SpaDeX in Action!
🎞️ Animation Alert: Experience the marvel of in-space docking with this animation!
PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission Live Stream: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to embark on the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) with the launch of PSLV-C60 on December 30 at 9:58 PM. This significant event will take place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, located in Sriharikota.
India is preparing to make history with the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), a groundbreaking mission that will demonstrate satellite docking in space. Scheduled for launch on December 30, the mission is a major step forward for India's space capabilities.
India's space program experienced a minor yet intriguing delay as the Indian Space Research Organisation ( ISRO) postponed the launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) by two minutes.
Did You Know? | The SpaDeX spacecraft, developed by URSC with ISRO center support, is launch-ready after integration, testing, and clearance at Ananth Technologies, Bangalore.
Dec 30, 2024, 9:37 pm IST
The PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission marks ISRO's 99th launch, setting the stage for its historic 100th mission in 2025, with perfect weather conditions at Sriharikota.
Dec 30, 2024, 9:39 pm IST
The POEM-4 mission will carry 24 payloads—14 from ISRO/DOS centres and 10 from academia and start-ups via IN-SPACe—marking a three-fold capacity boost for POEM.