December 30th 2024.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on Monday that two spacecraft, designed to aid in demonstrating space docking technology for future missions, were successfully separated and placed into a low earth orbit late last night. Mission director M Jayakumar declared the PSLV C60 mission a success, thanks to the SpaDeX spacecraft.
This mission is seen as a stepping stone for ISRO's ambitious plan to establish its own Space Station by 2035. Not only does it mark a significant achievement for India, but it also puts the country in an elite group of nations that have accomplished this feat. The 44.5 metre tall rocket, carrying two spacecraft weighing 220kg each, was launched from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota, an island located about 135 km east of Chennai. The launch was accompanied by thick orange fumes and a deafening sound, as the rocket soared into the sky.
The two spacecraft, also known as Spacecraft A and B, will play a crucial role in space docking, satellite servicing, and interplanetary missions. After a 25-hour countdown that began on Sunday, the rocket lifted off at 10 pm, reaching an altitude of about 470 km. According to ISRO scientists, the two spacecraft will be merged at this altitude, after travelling at the same speed and distance.
Mastering the docking technology will not only enhance ISRO's operational flexibility, but also expand its mission horizons. This technology is essential for India's ambitious space projects, such as landing on the Moon, collecting samples, and building and operating the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
ISRO stated that this mission is a significant step towards India becoming the fourth country in the world to possess space docking technology, after China, Russia, and the US. While the spacecraft has reached the desired orbit, the next step for scientists is to reduce the distance between the two, ultimately leading to their docking.
Interestingly, the PSLV-C60 mission marks the last mission for ISRO in 2024. The space agency had a successful start to the year with the launch of the PSLV-C58/XPOSAT mission on January 1. This launch also marks a milestone for ISRO, as it is the first time a vehicle has been integrated up to the fourth stage at the PSLV Integration Facility in Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
Overall, this mission is a significant achievement for ISRO and a testament to India's growing capabilities in the field of space technology. With the successful demonstration of space docking, ISRO is now one step closer to achieving its ambitious goals and cementing its position as a leading player in the global space industry.
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