Excessive drift forces ISRO to postpone satellite docking experiment for the second time

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has once again delayed its ambitious Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx), citing technical challenges during a crucial manoeuvre.

The experiment, scheduled for January 7 and later rescheduled for January 9, was postponed on Wednesday after ISRO detected an unexpected drift between the two participating satellites during a critical phase.

“While making a manoeuvre to reach 225 m between satellites, the drift was found to be more than expected, post non-visibility period. The planned docking for tomorrow is postponed. Satellites are safe. Stay tuned for updates,” ISRO announced in a post on social media platform ‘X’.

While making a maneuver to reach 225 m between satellites the drift was found to be more than expected, post non-visibility period.

The planned docking for tomorrow is postponed. Satellites are safe.

Stay tuned for updates.#ISRO #SPADEX

— ISRO (@isro) January 8, 2025

A vital step for India’s space programme

The SpaDEx project is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at developing and demonstrating technologies essential for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking. It involves two small satellites that are designed to perform these complex manoeuvres autonomously.

In its explainer, ISRO emphasised the importance of this experiment:

“SpaDEx will serve as a milestone in advancing India’s capabilities in space docking, a critical technology for future space missions including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary missions.”

Challenges in precision manoeuvring

This marks the second postponement of the experiment, which highlights the complexities of achieving precision in orbital manoeuvres. The initial attempt on January 7 was deferred due to undisclosed reasons, with the next window set for January 9. However, the excessive drift encountered during the latest test prompted ISRO to delay the experiment once more.

Despite the challenges, ISRO confirmed that the satellites remain safe, and the agency is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the success of future attempts.

The success of SpaDEx is critical for India’s long-term goals in space exploration, including satellite servicing, the construction of modular space stations, and supporting interplanetary missions.