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PSLV-C60 Mission
Context:
India is on the cusp of making history with the launch of the groundbreaking Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), scheduled for December 30, 2024.
PSLV-C60 Mission Overview
- Launch Date and Purpose: Scheduled for December 30, 2024, the PSLV-C60 mission will launch the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX).
- Payload: The mission will carry two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), each weighing 220 kg, to demonstrate in-orbit docking and undocking in low Earth orbit (470 km, 55° inclination).
Objectives of SpaDeX
- Docking and Undocking Demonstration: Showcase the capability of precise rendezvous, docking, and undocking in space.
- Electrical Power Transfer: Test power-sharing between the two docked satellites.
- Satellite Capabilities:
- Chaser Satellite (SDX01): Equipped with a High-Resolution Camera (HRC).
- Target Satellite (SDX02): Features a Miniature Multispectral Payload (MMX) and a Radiation Monitor (RadMon).
PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4)
- Functionality: Utilises the fourth stage of PSLV (PS4) as a stabilised platform for conducting 24 scientific experiments post-satellite separation.
- Power and Navigation:
- Power: Solar panels and a Li-Ion battery.
- Navigation: Equipped with sun sensors, magnetometer, gyros, and NavIC.
POEM-4 Payload Highlights
- Robotic Experiments:
- Relocatable Robotic Manipulator (IISU): Demonstrates inchworm-like robotic arm movements.
- Debris Capture Robotic Manipulator (VSSC): Captures tethered space debris.
- Biological Experiments:
- Amity Plant Experimental Module (APEMS): Studies spinach growth in microgravity.
- RVSat-1: Monitors growth of gut bacterium (Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron) to understand astronaut health.
- Communication Payloads:
- BGS ARPIT: Enables satellite-to-ground communication with frequency modulation.
- Swetchasat: Designed for data transmission.
- Propulsion Technologies:
- RUDRA 1.0: Tests a green propulsion system.
- VYOM 2U: Demonstrates a safer monopropellant alternative to hydrazine.
- MEMS and Data Processing:
- STeRG-P1.0: Advanced measurement systems.
- MOI-TD: Real-time data processing experiments.
Strategic Importance of SpaDeX
- Human Spaceflight: Crucial for India’s Gaganyaan program.
- Lunar Missions: Essential for sample return missions like Chandrayaan-4.
- Space Station Development: Supports India’s Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
- Global Recognition: Positions India as the fourth country (after Russia, US, and China) to master space docking technology.
What is Space Docking?
- Definition: Space docking is the process of rendezvous and physical connection between two spacecraft in orbit.
- Steps:
- Rendezvous: Aligning two spacecraft in the same orbit with minimal distance and velocity difference.
- Docking: Mechanically connecting the spacecraft using specialised systems.
- Resource Sharing: Enabling transfer of power, fuel, or crew between the docked spacecraft.
Future Missions Linked to SpaDeX
- 2025 Gaganyaan Missions: Uncrewed flights to prepare for human spaceflight.
- Chandrayaan-4: Plans for lunar sample return missions.
- NASA-ISRO SAR Mission: Joint mission for advanced remote sensing capabilities.
- Shubanshu Shukla’s ISS Flight: Potential participation in the Axiom 4 mission.
This mission demonstrates India’s technological prowess in space exploration and its readiness for advanced space infrastructure development.
