The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a groundbreaking milestone late Monday with the successful launch of its first space docking mission, marking a crucial step towards future space exploration and ambitions for a space station by 2035. The mission, carried out using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60), placed two spacecraft into the designated 475 km circular orbit, setting the stage for India’s entry into the elite club of nations mastering space docking technology.

The PSLV-C60 mission, launched at 10 PM IST from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, carried two 220 kg spacecraft—Spacecraft A (SDX01), referred to as the “Chaser,” and Spacecraft B (SDX02), the “Target.” These spacecraft are designed to perform docking, a vital capability for interplanetary missions, satellite servicing, and the development of a space station.

ISRO Chief S Somanath confirmed the successful deployment of the satellites into the target orbit after a 15-minute flight. “The SpaDeX satellites have moved one behind the other, and over time, they will pick up distance, travel about 20 km apart, and then initiate the rendezvous and docking process,” he said. The docking is expected to occur by January 7, 2025.

The mission is a precursor to ISRO’s ambitious Bharatiya Antariksh Station project and other advanced missions, such as Chandrayaan-4 for lunar sample collection. Space docking technology allows for enhanced operational flexibility, enabling multiple rocket launches to work in tandem for shared objectives. India now stands on the verge of becoming the fourth country to master this capability, joining China, Russia, and the United States.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the mission as a grand success that strengthens India’s role as a global leader in space exploration. “This achievement opens a new path for Bharat in space docking technology,” he said.

A significant feature of the PSLV-C60 mission is the POEM-4 (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module), which is active and houses 24 payloads from startups, industries, academic institutions, and ISRO centers. This is also the first PSLV rocket integrated up to the fourth stage at the newly established PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

The spacecraft’s design ensures precise maneuvering for the docking process. Once in orbit, the two spacecraft will align, match speed, and ultimately merge, paving the way for future missions that require in-orbit assembly.

ISRO shared stunning visuals of the PSLV-C60 launch, including slow-motion liftoff and onboard footage. The rocket’s ascent was marked by thick orange flames and a powerful roar, captivating audiences worldwide.

This mission concludes ISRO’s 2024 schedule, which began with the successful PSLV-C58/XPOSAT launch on January 1. The upcoming docking operation will solidify India’s position as a space technology leader and provide critical insights for future endeavors.