Picture : ISRO/ X
ISRO has successfully performed the docking of satellites as part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), sources in the space agency said.
“The docking was performed successfully. We will be issuing a statement soon,” a source told PTI.
Earlier on January 12, ISRO brought the two spacecraft to three metres and then moved them back to safe distance in its trial attempt to dock the satellites.
ISRO had successfully launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission on December 30, 2024.
The PSLV C60 rocket carrying two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), along with 24 payloads, had lifted off from the first launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, and about 15 minutes after liftoff, the two small spacecraft weighing about 220 kg each were launched into a 475-km circular orbit as intended.
Reacting to the big moment , Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tweeted on X
Congratulations to our scientists at @isro and the entire space fraternity for the successful demonstration of space docking of satellites. It is a significant stepping stone for India’s ambitious space missions in the years to come.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 16, 2025
Rahul Gandhi, Leader Of Opposition
Congratulations to the brilliant scientists of ISRO for the historic success of SpaDeX, making India the fourth nation to master space docking technology.
This milestone marks a significant leap in India’s capabilities, paving the way for greater space programs and missions.…
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 16, 2025
Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress president
We are extremely proud of the exceptional work of the scientists and space engineers at @isro as they successfully achieved the satellite docking as part of the SpaDex Mission.
This significant milestone marks a pivotal step for the future of India’s space program, which has…
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) January 16, 2025
