Daily Current Affairs : 30-December-2024

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the PSLV-C60/SpaDeX mission on December 30, 2024. This mission will mark an important milestone for India’s space exploration efforts, showcasing new technologies that could play a crucial role in future space missions.

Mission Overview

Launch Vehicle:

  • PSLV-C60 will be used in its core-alone configuration for the mission.

Objective:
The SpaDeX mission has two main goals:

  • Primary Goal: To demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two spacecraft.
  • Secondary Goal:
    • To transfer electric power between the docked spacecraft for future robotic operations.
    • To test composite spacecraft control and perform post-docking payload operations.
Mission Features

Satellites Involved:
The mission involves the launch of two satellites:

  • SDX01: Known as the Chaser satellite, which will approach and dock with the other satellite.
  • SDX02: Known as the Target satellite, which will be docked by the Chaser.
    Both satellites will weigh around 220 kg each.

Orbit Details:

  • The spacecraft will be placed in a 470-km circular orbit with an inclination of 55 degrees.

Docking Process:

  • The mission will start with the Far Rendezvous, where the two spacecraft will be 20 km apart.
  • As the Chaser moves closer, the docking distance will reduce to just 3 meters before they successfully dock.

Post-Docking Activities:

  • After docking, the spacecraft will demonstrate electric power transfer, an essential technology for future space operations.
Significance of the SpaDeX Mission

The SpaDeX mission has significant importance for India’s space ambitions:

  • Foundation for Indian Space Station: It lays the groundwork for the creation of Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s own space station.
  • Supporting Future Missions: The mission will play a key role in upcoming projects like Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight mission, and future lunar exploration.
  • Cost-Effective Space Operations: The ability to repair and refuel satellites in orbit will reduce mission costs and improve mission success rates.
  • Global Participation: SpaDeX enhances India’s ability to contribute to international space projects and participate in collaborative missions for space stations.
Important Points:
  • Launch Date: ISRO’s PSLV-C60/SpaDeX mission is scheduled for December 30, 2024.
  • Launch Vehicle: The mission will use the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) in its core-alone configuration.
  • Mission Objectives:
    • Primary Goal: Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two spacecraft.
    • Secondary Goal:
      • Transfer electric power between the docked spacecraft.
      • Test composite spacecraft control and perform post-docking payload operations.
  • Satellites Involved:
    • SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), each weighing 220 kg.
  • Orbit Details: The spacecraft will be placed in a 470-km circular orbit with a 55-degree inclination.
  • Docking Process:
    • Start with a 20-km separation (Far Rendezvous).
    • Docking will occur at a distance of 3 meters.
  • Post-Docking Activities: Electric power transfer will be demonstrated between the spacecraft after docking.
  • Mission Significance:
    • Lays the foundation for Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and future lunar missions.
    • Supports future human spaceflight (Gaganyaan) and satellite refueling/repair operations.
    • Reduces mission costs and enhances India’s participation in global space projects.
Why In News

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to conclude 2024 with a significant milestone, the PSLV-C60/SpaDeX mission, which is scheduled for launch on December 30, 2024, marking a key step in advancing India’s capabilities in space exploration and technology.

MCQs about ISRO’s SpaDeX Mission
  1. What is the primary goal of ISRO’s PSLV-C60/SpaDeX mission?
    A. To demonstrate satellite launch capabilities
    B. To showcase rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft
    C. To develop new satellite communication technologies
    D. To test the Gaganyaan spacecraft
    Correct Answer: B. To showcase rendezvous, docking, and undocking of spacecraft
    Explanation: The primary goal of the SpaDeX mission is to demonstrate the rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two spacecraft, marking a significant achievement in advanced space operations.
  2. How many satellites are involved in the SpaDeX mission, and what are their names?
    A. One satellite – SDX01
    B. Two satellites – SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target)
    C. Two satellites – Gaganyaan and GSLV
    D. Three satellites – SDX01, SDX02, and SDX03
    Correct Answer: B. Two satellites – SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target)
    Explanation: The mission involves two satellites: **SDX01 (Chaser)** and **SDX02 (Target)**, each weighing 220 kg, that will demonstrate docking and power transfer.
  3. What is the significance of the SpaDeX mission for India’s future space ambitions?
    A. It will enable India to build its own space station and contribute to international space projects
    B. It will replace the need for international space collaborations
    C. It will focus only on lunar exploration
    D. It will solely develop new satellite launch vehicles
    Correct Answer: A. It will enable India to build its own space station and contribute to international space projects
    Explanation: The SpaDeX mission is crucial for laying the groundwork for India’s **Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)** and for improving India’s ability to participate in **global space station projects**.
  4. What is one of the secondary goals of the SpaDeX mission?
    A. To explore Mars using the PSLV-C60 rocket
    B. To transfer electric power between the docked spacecraft
    C. To develop new rocket engines for future launches
    D. To demonstrate the launch of a manned spacecraft
    Correct Answer: B. To transfer electric power between the docked spacecraft
    Explanation: A secondary goal of the SpaDeX mission is to demonstrate the transfer of **electric power** between the two spacecraft after they are docked, which is important for future robotic space applications.

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