ISRO joins elite list by launching SpaDeX mission

With the two satellites weighing 220 kilograms each, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

SpaDEX marks a milestone, showcasing India's expertise in spacecraft docking technology.

SpaDEX will deploy two identical satellites, SDX01 and SDX02.

They will orbit 470 km above Earth.

"Key objectives include Performing precision rendezvous and docking manoeuvres,   Validating power transfer between docked spacecraft and  Operating payloads post-undocking, with a two-year lifespan," ISRO said in a statement.

"This mission is essential for future endeavours, including satellite servicing and building India's space station, Bharatiya Antriksh Station," ISRO said.

SpaDEX will demonstrate docking and undocking capabilities between satellites.

This includes transferring power and operating scientific payloads.

The mission will simulate a sequence of manoeuvres, starting with a far rendezvous phase at 20 km and ending with docking at 3 metres.

This capability is vital for India's lunar and interplanetary missions.

Docking technology enables multi-launch missions and supports future human spaceflight.

India will join an elite list with only the US, Russia, and China having mastered such advancements so far.