Daily Current Affairs : 24-December-2024
India’s SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission, scheduled for launch on December 30, 2024, is an ambitious project by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The mission is designed to demonstrate and develop the technologies necessary for docking and undocking spacecraft in space. This crucial technology has the potential to enhance future space exploration and satellite servicing missions.
Objective of the SpaDeX Mission
The primary goal of the SpaDeX mission is to demonstrate the rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two spacecraft in low Earth orbit. These operations are essential for various space applications, such as satellite servicing, space station maintenance, and future missions to the Moon or Mars. The secondary objectives include:
- Power Transfer: Once docked, the spacecraft will transfer electric power between each other, showcasing potential applications for robotic spacecraft in the future.
- Payload Operations: Post-docking, the spacecraft will perform composite spacecraft control and payload operations.
Key Technologies Used in SpaDeX
To achieve its objectives, SpaDeX will use a variety of advanced technologies, some of which include:
- Docking Mechanism: The mission features a low-impact androgynous docking system, which means that both spacecraft can dock with each other, regardless of their orientation. This system uses two motors for smooth and efficient docking.
- Sensor Suite: SpaDeX is equipped with advanced sensors like:
- Laser Range Finder (LRF) for accurate distance measurement.
- Proximity and Docking Sensors (PDS) for detecting the spacecraft’s relative position.
- Video Monitors for visual assistance during docking.
- RODP Processor: This GNSS-based system helps in determining the precise position and velocity of the spacecraft, ensuring safe docking and undocking.
- Inter-Satellite Link (ISL): This autonomous communication system allows real-time data sharing between the spacecraft, ensuring smooth operations during the docking procedure.
Significance of the SpaDeX Mission
The SpaDeX mission marks several important milestones for India and global space exploration:
- Technological Milestone: With this mission, India will become the fourth country in the world to develop and demonstrate space docking technology, positioning itself as a key player in the global space industry.
- Advancing Space Exploration: The success of SpaDeX will lay the groundwork for more complex future missions like Chandrayaan-4, the development of space stations, and sample return missions from other planets.
- Cost-Effective Innovation: SpaDeX demonstrates India’s ability to develop affordable, scalable technologies for complex space operations, reducing the cost of future missions.
- Global Collaboration: By adopting docking standards similar to the International Docking System, SpaDeX promotes potential international cooperation for future missions involving multiple space agencies.
Important Points:
- Mission Overview: SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is an ISRO mission to demonstrate in-space docking and undocking of two spacecraft.
- Launch Details:
- Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C60
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit (470 km)
- Spacecraft: Two spacecraft, Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02)
- Primary Objectives:
- Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft.
- Secondary Objectives:
- Power transfer between docked spacecraft for future robotic missions.
- Composite spacecraft control and post-docking payload operations.
- Technological Innovations:
- Docking Mechanism: Low-impact androgynous system with two motors.
- Sensor Suite: Includes Laser Range Finder (LRF), Proximity and Docking Sensors (PDS), and video monitors for precise docking.
- RODP Processor: GNSS-based system for accurate position and velocity determination.
- ISL Communication: Autonomous inter-satellite communication for real-time data exchange.
- Significance:
- Technological Milestone: Positions India as the 4th country to develop space docking technology.
- Advancing Space Exploration: Paves the way for missions like Chandrayaan-4, space stations, and sample return missions.
- Cost-Effective Innovation: Demonstrates India’s ability to develop affordable, scalable space technologies.
- Global Collaboration: Fosters potential international cooperation by adopting standards similar to the International Docking System.
Why In News
India’s SpaDeX mission, aimed at developing and demonstrating the technology required for spacecraft docking and undocking in space, will be launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket on December 30, 2024. This mission marks a significant step forward in India’s space capabilities and paves the way for future space exploration and satellite servicing missions.
MCQs about India’s SpaDeX Mission
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What is the primary objective of the SpaDeX mission?
A. To test new communication technologies
B. To demonstrate spacecraft docking and undocking in space
C. To launch India’s first space station
D. To study the Moon’s surface
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Which launch vehicle will carry the SpaDeX spacecraft into orbit?
A. GSLV Mk III
B. PSLV-C60
C. Falcon 9
D. Ariane 5
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Which technology will be used for accurate spacecraft positioning during the docking process?
A. GPS
B. Laser Range Finder (LRF)
C. Infrared Sensors
D. Magnetic Sensors
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What significant milestone does the SpaDeX mission represent for India?
A. First satellite launched to Mars
B. Fourth country to develop space docking technology
C. First country to build a space station
D. First successful interplanetary mission
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