MISSION NAME
SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment)
Status
Success
DATE
30 DEC 2024
LAUNCH PROVIDER
Indian Space Research Organization
Launch Pad
Satish Dhawan Space Centre First Launch Pad
Description
SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) is an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) technology mission to demonstrate autonomous docking between 2 spacecraft in orbit. The mission will involve two spacecraft (Chaser and Target) rendezvous and docking together, plus testing attitude control of the combined spacecraft under docked conditions. The Chaser and Target spacecraft will then be separated for operating other payload. The mission is critical to develop rendezvous and docking abilities for ISRO’s future human spaceflight and lunar sample return missions.
PSLV-CA
Rocket Description
The PSLV-CA, CA meaning "Core Alone", model premiered on 23 April 2007. The CA model does not include the six strap-on boosters used by the PSLV standard variant. The fourth stage of the CA variant has 400 kg less propellant when compared to its standard version. It currently has capability to launch 1,100 kg to a 622 km Sun synchronous orbit.