A “traffic jam” in space has compelled the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to delay the launch of its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) by two minutes. Originally scheduled for 9:58 PM, the PSLV-C60 carrying the SpaDeX mission (Space Docking Experiment) will now launch at 10 PM.
ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath explained to NDTV that the delay was due to “conjunctions with other satellites in the same orbit.” This isn’t the first time ISRO has had to make such adjustments; similar delays occurred during the Chandrayaan-3 mission in 2023.
Space Traffic and Starlink Satellites
The immediate concern stemmed from satellites in SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, which operates approximately 7,000 satellites in low Earth orbit, providing global satellite-based broadband internet. The total Starlink constellation is expected to grow to around 12,000 satellites.
The growing number of satellites, combined with abundant space debris, has long been a source of concern for global space agencies. Scientists have warned that such “mega-constellations” significantly increase the risk of orbital traffic congestion.
Innovation in the SpaDeX Mission
The PSLV-C60 mission represents a leap in innovation for ISRO. For the first time, both the rocket and satellites were integrated and tested at a private entity, Ananth Technologies. The rocket was also assembled in a newly constructed facility at the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota.
The mission includes the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), a pivotal step for future endeavors such as Chandrayaan-4 and the proposed Bhartiya Antariksha Station. Additionally, ISRO has re-purposed the PSLV’s fourth stage, which typically becomes space debris, into an active, unmanned space laboratory known as the PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM).
POEM’s Experimental Payloads
POEM will host 24 experiments, marking India’s debut in live biology experiments in space. These include:
- Robotic experiments
- Growing cowpea seeds
- Testing eco-friendly rocket fuels
This innovation transforms a traditionally discarded rocket stage into a functional orbital laboratory.
Space Docking: India’s Next Frontier
The SpaDeX mission will test the docking and undocking of two satellites in orbit, a feat previously accomplished only by Russia, the United States, and China. Dr. Somanath emphasized that mastering docking is vital for India’s ambitious space projects, including its human spaceflight program, the Bhartiya Antariksha Station, and future lunar sample-return missions.
Docking involves two objects—a “chaser” and a “target”—where the chaser approaches and connects to the target. The technology is critical for transferring materials, crew, and other resources in space.
Significance of SpaDeX
This mission positions India among elite spacefaring nations capable of executing complex space operations. “The success of this mission will elevate India’s stature in global space exploration,” Dr. Somanath noted, showcasing ISRO’s transition from satellite launches to advanced orbital capabilities.
