Source: The post India advancements in 2025 space technology has been created, based on the article “Indian space programme breaks into 2025 on ‘mission mode’” published in “The Hindu” on 27th January 2025
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-Science and Technology-Awareness in the fields of Space
Context: The article highlights India’s advancements in space technology in early 2025. It discusses ISRO’s successful SpaDeX docking experiment, the POEM4 mission with various payloads, and private space companies’ contributions. It also mentions leadership changes at ISRO, approvals for a third launch pad, Vikas engine tests, and progress in solar research through the Aditya-L1 mission.
For detailed information on Space sector in India read this article here
What is the SpaDeX Docking Experiment?
- SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is an ISRO mission to achieve in-orbit satellite docking, a critical step for space stations and lunar missions.
- It was launched on December 30, 2024, aboard the PSLV-C60 from Sriharikota.
- The two satellites were deployed into a 475-km circular orbit and gradually maneuvered to dock.
4.Initial docking attempts started on January 7, 2025, but faced challenges due to unexpected drift.
- After multiple adjustments, the satellites successfully docked on January 16, 2025 at a distance of 3 meters.
- Post-docking, both satellites were controlled together, showcasing operational readiness for lunar and space-station docking.
7.The experiment involved private companies like Kepler Aerospace for ground support and s2a systems for tracking satellite separation.
What was the role of POEM4 in space experiments?
The role of POEM4 in space experiments was multifaceted and crucial for advancing space technology:
- Testbed for Technology: POEM4 utilized the PSLV’s fourth stage as an orbital platform, hosting 24 payloads from ISRO, academia, and the private sector.
- Robotic Demonstrations: Technologies tested included ISRO’s Relocatable Robotic Manipulator, which demonstrated movement capabilities, and the Debris Capture Robotic Arm Manipulator, aimed at capturing space debris.
- Plant Growth Experiments: The Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies successfully germinated cowpea seeds, studying plant growth in space.
- Propulsion Experiments: Manastu Space tested its green propulsion system, achieving a significant tilt of the stage. Bellatrix Aerospace conducted similar tests, further proving the module’s capabilities in maneuvering in orbit.
- Communication and Imaging: N Space Tech’s SwetchaSAT-V0 tested communications across different bands, and GalaxEye’s payload created synthetic-aperture radar images, enhancing imaging techniques in space.
How did private companies contribute to the missions?
- Kepler Aerospace: Provided ground station-as-a-service for the SpaDeX mission, enabling command and control of two satellites simultaneously.
- Pixxel Space: Launched three hyperspectral satellites as India’s first private satellite constellation, with deployment successful and two-way communication established.
- Digantara: Launched the Space Camera for Object Tracking to enhance space situational awareness.
- XDLINX Labs: Deployed a miniaturized communications satellite that transmitted a “hello from space” message.
What other developments happened at ISRO?
- V. Narayanan replaced S. Somanath as ISRO chairman on January 14, 2025.
- The Union Cabinet approved Rs 3,984.86 crore for a third launch pad at Sriharikota, operational by 2029.
- ISRO successfully tested the restart capability of the Vikas engine for atmospheric operations.
Conclusion
India’s space programme is progressing rapidly in 2025 with successful missions, private sector involvement, and leadership changes. These advancements are laying the groundwork for future human spaceflights, lunar missions, and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
Question for practice:
Discuss the role of private companies in advancing India’s space missions in 2025.
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