Space Docking

News: Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully showcased space docking. 

About Space Docking

• Space docking is the process of joining two spacecraft in orbit.  
• It involves bringing fast-moving spacecraft to the same orbital trajectory, moving them closer to one another either manually or autonomously, and finally locking them together mechanically.  
• This ability is crucial for complex space missions, including assembling space stations, conducting crew exchanges, and delivering supplies. 

Historical Context of Space Docking 

• United States (1966): The first docking was achieved during NASA’s Gemini VIII mission, where the spacecraft docked with the Agena target vehicle. 
• Soviet Union (1967): The USSR demonstrated the first uncrewed, automated docking between Kosmos 186 and Kosmos 188. This achievement underscored their engineering prowess during the space race. 
• China (2011): China’s unmanned Shenzhou 8 spacecraft docked with the Tiangong 1 space laboratory. A year later, the nation achieved its first crewed docking with the Shenzhou 9 mission. 

About Bharatiya Docking System (BDS) 

Docking Mechanisms:  The International Docking System Standard (IDSS), established in 2010, governs spacecraft docking with the International Space Station (ISS). 

Indian Docking Mechanism: 

• India employs an androgynous docking system, meaning identical systems are present on both the Chaser and Target satellites. 
• Similar to IDSS but uses two motors instead of the 24 motors in the IDSS design. 
• Advanced Sensors and Technology: Incorporates innovative sensors for precision measurements, including: Laser Range Finder, Rendezvous Sensor and Proximity and Docking Sensor 
• These sensors facilitate accurate approach and docking processes. 
• Navigation Processor: It features a new processor inspired by satellite navigation systems. Also, determines the relative position and velocity of the spacecraft. 
• Autonomous Docking Development: It serves as a precursor to future autonomous docking systems. Also, aims to achieve docking without relying on satellite-based navigation data.