India aims to join an elite space club tonight as ISRO launches its first autonomous docking mission, a vital step toward building its own space station. Only the US, Russia, China and the EU have independently mastered this technology.
In a significant leap forward for India's space ambitions, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its groundbreaking Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission today.
India is set to become the fourth nation to independently demonstrate autonomous docking capabilities, following the United States, Russia, and China. While the European Space Agency has successfully conducted automated docking operations with the International Space Station through its ATV program, India's achievement would mark it as the fourth individual country and fifth political entity to master this technology independently, with the first successful space docking achieved by the United States in 1966.
The mission, launching at 22:00:15 (Indian Standard Time) from the Sriharikota spaceport, will involve two small satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, each weighing 220 kg, performing an intricate orbital ballet at speeds of approximately 7.5 kilometres per second. Audiences will be able to watch via a YouTube livestream from 21:30 IST.
The event will also commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the death of Vikram Sarabhai, known at the "the pioneer" of the Indian Space Programme.
This technological feat is particularly challenging given the small size of the spacecraft. The “chaser" satellite (SDX01) will gradually approach its target through a series of precise manoeuvres, reducing the distance from 20 kilometres to just three metres before attempting the final docking procedure. The mission employs cutting-edge technology, including laser range finders, rendezvous sensors and proximity sensors, to ensure precise measurements during this delicate operation.
The success of SpaDeX is crucial for India's ambitious space goals, including the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035 and future lunar sample return missions. The planned space station will require multiple modules to be launched separately and assembled in orbit, making docking capability essential for its construction.
Beyond the primary docking experiment, the mission introduces several innovative elements. For the first time, ISRO will conduct a biological experiment in space through the CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies) module, which will attempt to germinate seeds in microgravity. The mission will also feature 24 different experiments, including 10 from startups and educational institutions.
The mission represents a significant departure from previous launches, as it's the first to utilise ISRO's new PSLV integration facility, where the rocket was assembled and transported to the launch pad on a moving platform – a change that promises to reduce the time between launches.
The successful completion of this mission will pave the way for more ambitious projects, including lunar sample return missions and the establishment of India's first space station, signaling a new chapter in the country's space exploration journey.
The docking is expected to take place in the first week of January 2025.
India's government has introduced a bill proposing sweeping reforms in the management of waqf properties, allowing non-Muslim members on waqf boards and enabling the state to determine disputed land ownership, sparking concerns among Muslim groups and opposition lawmakers.
Arrangements are currently underway for Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit India, according to Russia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov.
In a stern warning to the automaker, the Indian government told a Mumbai court that quashing Volkswagen's demand to cancel a $1.4 billion tax bill would have "catastrophic consequences" and could encourage companies to withhold information and delay inquiries.
Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in parts of Nagpur after violent clashes erupted over a Hindu group's demand to remove the tomb of 17th-century Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. At least 15 police officers were injured as tensions escalated between Hindu and Muslim groups.
India and New Zealand have signed a memorandum of understanding to boost defence cooperation, enhancing bilateral ties through joint exercises, training, and a roadmap for collaboration in the defence industry.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has cautioned that President Trump’s new tariffs will harm the economies of NATO allies, warning of broader consequences for both the U.S. and its transatlantic partners.
The first-ever Central Asia-European Union summit takes place in Samarkand, marking a milestone in regional cooperation. Officials will discuss trade, investment, energy, and security, aiming to strengthen economic ties and enhance political dialogue between the two regions, Kazinform reports.
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as FIFA confirms sole bid. The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales & NI stands uncontested, marking a major milestone for women’s football. Final approval pending, but preparations for a historic event are underway.
The first-ever summit between the European Union (EU) and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - began today in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Severe storms across the southern and Midwestern US have caused "generational" flooding and tornadoes, leaving over 400,000 without power. With up to 15 inches of rain expected and more tornadoes, officials warn of catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions.
Aid groups in Myanmar’s worst-hit areas urgently need shelter, food, and water after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 2,700 people. Rescue efforts face challenges due to ongoing civil war, damaged infrastructure, and restricted aid access, with the toll expected to rise.
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted of embezzlement, ruling her out of the 2027 presidential race. She received a four-year prison sentence, with two years suspended, and a €100,000 fine. Le Pen plans to appeal.
Apple marked its 49th anniversary by reaching a market capitalization of $3.3 trillion. Despite recent tech stock volatility, Apple's shares surged 28% in 2024.
The Armenian armed forces attempted three reconnaissance drone flights over Azerbaijan Army positions near Gerenzur, but all were successfully intercepted. Meanwhile, Armenian units repeatedly fired on Azerbaijani positions from multiple regions, escalating tensions in the area.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has cautioned that President Trump’s new tariffs will harm the economies of NATO allies, warning of broader consequences for both the U.S. and its transatlantic partners.
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as FIFA confirms sole bid. The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales & NI stands uncontested, marking a major milestone for women’s football. Final approval pending, but preparations for a historic event are underway.
Severe storms across the southern and Midwestern US have caused "generational" flooding and tornadoes, leaving over 400,000 without power. With up to 15 inches of rain expected and more tornadoes, officials warn of catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions.
Seven migrants, including a child, died when their boat sank off Lesbos. 23 survivors were rescued, but the search continues. Greece remains a crucial entry point for migrants, underscoring the perilous sea journey many undertake in search of safety and a new life.
The Hungarian government has decided to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), marking a significant shift in the country's international stance.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has cautioned that President Trump’s new tariffs will harm the economies of NATO allies, warning of broader consequences for both the U.S. and its transatlantic partners.
The first-ever Central Asia-European Union summit takes place in Samarkand, marking a milestone in regional cooperation. Officials will discuss trade, investment, energy, and security, aiming to strengthen economic ties and enhance political dialogue between the two regions, Kazinform reports.
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as FIFA confirms sole bid. The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales & NI stands uncontested, marking a major milestone for women’s football. Final approval pending, but preparations for a historic event are underway.
The first-ever summit between the European Union (EU) and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - began today in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Severe storms across the southern and Midwestern US have caused "generational" flooding and tornadoes, leaving over 400,000 without power. With up to 15 inches of rain expected and more tornadoes, officials warn of catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment