ISRO's groundbreaking space mission! Satellites SDX01, SDX02 just meters away from historic docking milestone | VIDEO

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to make significant strides in space exploration as its two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), approach a critical docking phase. As of the latest update, the satellites are just three meters apart, marking a pivotal moment in their mission. This docking experiment aims to demonstrate advanced in-space docking capabilities using small spacecraft.

A Groundbreaking Mission

ISRO has confirmed that both satellites are functioning well. In a recent post on social media, the agency stated, "At 15 metres, we see each other clearer and clearer; we are just 50 feet away for an exciting handshake." This statement emphasizes the precision and coordination required for the upcoming docking maneuver.

Data Collection and Future Steps

In an update released at 7:06 AM, ISRO noted that a trial attempt to close the distance to three meters had been completed successfully. However, they also indicated that the docking process would be postponed for further data analysis. "Moving back spacecrafts to a safe distance. The docking process will be done after analyzing data further. Stay tuned for updates," ISRO added.

Mission Timeline and Objectives

Originally launched on December 30, 2024, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, this mission is part of ISRO's SpaDeX initiative. The PSLV C60 rocket carried both satellites into a circular orbit approximately 475 kilometers above Earth. This successful docking operation would position India as the fourth nation to master these complex technologies, essential for future projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and crewed lunar missions.

Current Status of the Satellites

On Saturday, ISRO reported that both spacecraft were in "normal" health. The agency stated, "Arrested at Inter Satellite Distance (ISD) of 230 m, all sensors are being evaluated." Earlier updates indicated that the satellites were on "hold" mode while maintaining a distance of 1.5 kilometers from each other, with plans to drift closer by 500 meters.

As ISRO continues to monitor the situation closely, experts anticipate that this mission will yield valuable insights into space docking procedures and contribute to India's growing capabilities in space exploration