The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently made headlines with its latest attempt to achieve a crucial milestone in space technology, the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX).
Unfortunately, despite narrowing the gap between two satellites to just 15 metres, the mission was aborted after complications arose during the docking process.
The mission, which began shortly after midnight, saw ISRO utilise the slow drift technique to reduce the distance between the two satellites from 230 metres to 15 metres.
At that point, the satellites were almost aligned and ready for docking, and the team was hopeful that the mission would be a success.
However, as the team attempted to close the gap further, from 15 metres to just 3 metres, issues arose. The proximity and docking sensor, which plays a vital role in ensuring the satellites align perfectly, experienced delays in sending crucial signals.
This sensor is critical for the success of the docking process, as even a minor deviation in direction could result in failure. Due to the importance of the sensor's data, the onboard systems automatically initiated safe mode, moving the satellites to a secure distance to prevent any potential damage.
Following the abort, ISRO officials acknowledged that the malfunctioning sensor had led to the decision to stop the mission. The organisation is now conducting a thorough assessment to diagnose the problem and ensure that the sensor issue is resolved before attempting another docking.
At present, the two satellites have already moved apart and are currently separated by over eight kilometres.
This marks the third postponement of the SpaDeX mission, a mission of great importance for India, as it seeks to become only the fourth country—after the United States, Russia, and China—to achieve successful satellite docking capabilities.
The SpaDeX mission is designed to test key technologies that will be crucial for future space exploration. Among the technologies being tested are satellite servicing and space station operations.
These capabilities are essential for future missions that may involve repairing, refuelling, or upgrading satellites in orbit, or even operating in space stations.
Despite the setback, ISRO remains optimistic. Scientists are analysing the data from the aborted attempt and are hopeful that future opportunities will allow the mission to succeed.
The team is also reviewing the sensor issue and will work on solutions to prevent such complications in subsequent attempts.
However, if the sensor issues persist, ISRO may need to delay future attempts until conditions improve.
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