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Time of India
08-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
ISRO performs space 'dogfight' with twin satellites 500 kilometres above Earth, showcasing advanced orbital control
Only weeks after the United States sounded the alarm over China's mock "dogfights" in space, India has quietly pulled off a historic space manoeuvre of its own—one that marries sophisticated scientific finesse with nuanced strategic signalling. On its SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation ( ISRO ) successfully executed a high-speed satellite rendezvous in space, showcasing not only technical capability but future preparedness in the new frontier of orbital defence . Operation Sindoor Three explosions rock Lahore, flight ops temporarily halted Before & after: Satellite images show damage to terror camps in Pak after Op Sindoor Operation Sindoor: 'India is going to ...', says Donald Trump's close ally Laura Loomer in viral post on Twitter ISRO turns SPADEX mission into space dogfight experiment The SPADEX mission was first initiated to develop autonomous docking and undocking of two satellites, SDX 01 and SDX 02, effectively making it possible for spacecraft to link and unlink automatically. Such autonomy is the backbone of long-duration space missions, space station activities, and servicing satellites. When the main mission was accomplished, ISRO engineers observed that the two satellites had almost 50% of fuel left, owing to accurate launch calibration and cautious fuel management. This created the possibility for an unintended but ambitious second phase: testing high-speed coordinated manoeuvres in orbit. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Invest $200 in Amazon without buying stocks to earn a second salary Marketsall Sign Up Undo India moves closer to space warfare readiness with dogfight drill In this makeshift extension of the mission, ISRO executed what looked like a space-based dogfight. The two satellites were manoeuvred into synchronised, high-speed contact at orbital speeds of 28,800 kmph—approximately 28 times the speed of a commercial airliner. Flying at such velocities, even the slightest miscalculation can result in disastrous consequences, and hence, this was an accomplishment of gigantic technical sophistication. Similar to fighter jets' aerial combat training, the satellites gradually closed in on each other under controlled conditions, pushing the boundaries of orbital control , real-time communication, and autonomous control systems. Although no weapons were used, the exercise replicates the manoeuvring accuracy that would be required in future space wars. ISRO's orbital test reflects India's rising role in space security ISRO has explained the procedure in purely scientific terms, but timing and capability displayed cannot be dismissed in a global perspective. As recently as a few months back, the US Space Force went on record denouncing China as carrying out provocative orbital manoeuvres and warning against potential militarisation of space. India's version, technologically identical, was implemented in a serene, controlled setting centred on experimentation. Nevertheless, the message is obvious: India has grown to a stage of orbital capability where it can maintain, navigate, and control satellites with tactical sophistication—abilities important for civilian and defence uses in space. ISRO's milestone strengthens India's position in the space race This manoeuvre represents a great landmark for India in the increasingly intensified global struggle to dominate space. Only a very few countries have been able to execute such near-proximity, autonomous satellite activities. India, with this move, has entered that high echelon of exclusive clubs. Further, it strengthens India's plans for deep-space explorations, satellite service technologies, and, in the longer term, its capability to protect its assets in space from the outside world—be they natural or hostile. Also Read | Astronomers discover giant star-forming cloud, 5,000 times larger than the Sun, near our solar system
News18
07-05-2025
- Science
- News18
'Dogfight' In Space At The Speed Of 29,000 kmph: ISRO Shows How It's Done
Last Updated: India's ISRO achieved a milestone with the SPADEX mission, simulating a space dogfight between satellites at 28,800 km/h, showcasing advanced space defense capabilities Just weeks after the United States accused China of simulating a high-stakes 'dogfight' in space, India has quietly pulled off a technological feat of its own, one that not only demonstrates scientific prowess but hints at strategic readiness for the future of orbital defence. Under the ambitious SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved what few nations dare to attempt: two Indian satellites—SDX 01 and SDX 02—were successfully manoeuvred to face one another in orbit, closing in at speeds nearing 29,000 km/h. What followed was nothing short of a simulated space confrontation, conducted with breath-taking precision. Initially launched to test autonomous docking and undocking capabilities, the SPADEX mission had already achieved its primary objectives. However, with nearly half of their onboard fuel reserves still available, ISRO scientists saw an opportunity to push the boundaries further. What they orchestrated next resembled an aerial dogfight, but in the vacuum of space. In an unprecedented move, both satellites were guided to approach each other head-on, mimicking high-speed combat manoeuvres akin to fighter jets locked in a mid-air drill. At an orbital velocity of 28,800 km/h, around 28 times faster than a commercial aircraft, the exercise was described by ISRO as 'technically complex and extraordinarily challenging". This demonstration is more than a marvel of scientific ingenuity; it hints at India's quiet preparation for the evolving domain of space security, often dubbed the next frontier of warfare. Earlier this year, the United States had raised alarm bells, accusing China of weaponising space by simulating dogfights with satellites, an act many viewed as a potential military provocation. In contrast, India's exercise, while echoing the technical nature of such manoeuvres, was conducted in a calm, deliberate, and scientific context. Yet the implications are clear: India now possesses the technological maturity to engage in high-precision orbital operations, asserting itself as a rising power in space defence capabilities. A Stark Contrast With Pakistan While India advances in orbital control and autonomous docking technology, Pakistan continues to rely on China and the United States for basic GPS functionality. Bereft of its own satellite docking infrastructure or deep-space R&D, Islamabad is nowhere near fielding a mission like SPADEX. This successful experiment not only marks a leap forward for India in terms of space exploration and satellite autonomy, it also sends an unmistakable message: India is preparing not just for terrestrial challenges, but for those in orbit as well. First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:08 IST
Time of India
05-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
ISRO reportedly conducts satellite 'dogfight' at nearly 29,000 kilometers per hour amid India-Pakistan tensions
A month after the US flagged China for conducting mock 'dogfights' in space using satellites, India has achieved a similar feat by carrying out a complex satellite manoeuvre using leftover fuel from its SPADEX mission . As per a NDTV report, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) used two satellites, SDX 01 and SDX 02, to perform a satellite-to-satellite manoeuvre that resembled a dogfight — a term usually used for aerial combat. This was not part of ISRO 's original mission plan but was enabled by efficient fuel management. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack Inside Operation Tupac: Pakistan's secret project to burn Kashmir Who is Asim Munir, the Zia-style general shaping Pakistan's faith-driven military revival 'Looking for partners, not preachers': India's strong message for EU amid LoC tensions ISRO uses leftover fuel to test satellite manoeuvres ISRO had launched the SPADEX mission to test autonomous rendezvous and docking capabilities. After its successful completion, the agency found that both satellites involved still had around 50% of their fuel remaining. This was possible due to a precise rocket launch and frugal use of fuel in orbit. Using this fuel, ISRO executed a new test involving close coordination between the two satellites in orbit, similar to mock dogfights in the air. The activity was described as technically complex and difficult to carry out. 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Falkirk: This Is The Truth About "No Fuss" Cremations Golden Leaves Undo Two Indian satellites were travelling through space at a speed of 28,800 kilometers per hour, which is 28 times faster than a commercial passenger jet. Global context: US had warned of China's satellite dogfights In March, the US Space Force had raised concerns about China's increasing ability to conduct satellite manoeuvres that simulate combat in space. 'That's what we call dogfighting in space. They are practicing tactics, techniques, and procedures to do on-orbit space operations from one satellite to another,' US Space Force vice-chief Michael A Guetlein had said. Live Events India's demonstration follows those global developments and marks a step forward in the country's space technology capabilities. India Stops Chenab Water Flow? In another report, India has reportedly temporarily stopped water flow through the Baglihar dam on the Chenab river. This move follows India's decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty in retaliation for the attack, with similar measures being considered for the Kishanganga Dam. The suspension of water flow through the Baglihar dam is a temporary action. The dam, built in accordance with the Indus Waters Treaty, has a limited capacity to hold water and must release it once that capacity is reached. This action, however, signals a warning to Pakistan amid heightened tensions following the terror attack. Baglihar and Kishanganga projects The Baglihar dam is located on the Chenab river, which is classified as a "western river" under the Indus Waters Treaty. As per the treaty, Pakistan has the right to unrestricted use of the Chenab's waters. India is permitted to use the water for agricultural purposes, hydroelectric generation, or other non-consumptive uses. The Baglihar project, a run-of-the-river power project in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district, generates 900 MW of hydroelectricity. The first phase was completed in 2008, and the second phase was completed in 2015. A similar project, the Kishanganga dam in Bandipore, generates 330 MW of power. Pakistan has previously raised objections to both projects, claiming that their design violated the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan argued that the Baglihar dam's parameters could give India a strategic advantage in times of conflict. Similarly, Pakistan objected to the Kishanganga project, arguing that India was not permitted to divert water from one tributary to another. However, a Court of Arbitration ruled in India's favor. Pakistan has previously warned that any attempt by India to stop water flow would be viewed as an act of war. The country has threatened to suspend all bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement, which governs the Line of Control. Tensions escalate following Pahalgam terror attack The move comes in the wake of a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, where 25 tourists and a Kashmiri were killed. The attack has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemning the attack and vowing that those responsible would face severe consequences. Modi expressed the nation's collective grief and anger over the killings, stating, 'This attack was not just on innocent tourists; the country's enemies have shown the audacity to attack India's soul.' Investigations have pointed to Pakistan's involvement in the attack, which has further strained bilateral relations.
NDTV
03-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Indian Satellites Practising "Dogfights" In Space. What It Means
India is conducting a rare and very sophisticated "dogfight" in space between a 'chaser' and 'target' satellite orbiting nearly 500 kilometers above the Earth. This comes close on the heels of Chinese defence satellites practising "dogfights" in low Earth orbits in 2024. Dogfighting in space refers to the concept of coordinated, close-range maneuvers between spacecraft, similar to the aerial dogfights between fighter jets. The Indian attempt is one more useful extension of the ambitious SPADEX Mission by the Indian Space Research Organization or ISRO. A mission with many societal and strategic objectives rolled in seamlessly. Two Indian satellites - zipping through space at 28,800 kilometers per hour, or at a speed which is 28 times faster than cruising a commercial passenger jet and 10 times the speed of a bullet - are autonomously participating in this precision flight pattern orchestrated by the ISRO. Both satellites have been conducting rendezvous and proximity tactics. This current "dogfight" was preceded by an extended but manually conducted circumambulation or parikrama between the chaser and target satellite a few weeks ago. In the SPADEX mission, India has already "successfully demonstrated docking and undocking twice over", ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan told NDTV. After these extended docking and undocking maneuvers, the ISRO chief said, there was still 50% of the fuel left on the two satellites. A precision rocket launch and frugal orbital management has left the two satellites with nearly 2.5 kilograms of fuel each, said the ISRO chief, adding that this helps extend the mission life. Praising the effort, Brigadier (Retd) Anshuman Narang, Director and Founder Atma Nirbhar Soch, an independent think tank, said, "Through this dogfight in space, ISRO is pushing the right technological frontier. It's a good thing that this technology demonstration of peaceful robotisation in space through advanced swadeshi technology. This space modernization and autonomisation through indigenisation and intelligentisation is what today's atmanirbhar Bharat needs." The officer, a space expert, keeps a close watch on China's space developments. Incidentally, China recently demonstrated this huge capability using several satellites and even the US Space Force expressed concern that USA's rivals were closing the technology gap. Earlier, the ISRO successfully demonstrated the docking of the SPADEX satellites (SDX 01 & SDX 02) for the second time on April 20. Subsequently, power transfer from SDX 02 to SDX 01 satellite as well as vice versa was also exercised and accomplished on April 21. The experiment involved operating a heater element in one of the satellites through power from the other satellite. The duration of power transfer was approximately 4 minutes and the performance of the satellites was as expected. In the second docking attempt, the docking was completed with full autonomy from an inter-satellite distance of 15m till docking, whereas in the first docking attempt, an additional hold point was manually exercised at an inter-satellite distance of 3m. The second docking experiment was preceded by detailed ground simulations and on-orbit trials incorporating the experience gained from first docking and undocking experiments, thereby providing immense confidence for the second docking demonstration. The demonstration of the fully autonomous second docking along with power transfer marks the completion of an important milestone in the SPADEX mission. The first docking was achieved on January 16 this year. ISRO successfully docked two Indian satellites in space orbiting at 475 kilometers above Earth, becoming the fourth country after Russia, USA and China to have successfully learnt docking. India launched the SpaDeX mission on December 30 last year using the PSLV rocket. Docking is an enabling technology for future missions like Chandrayaan-4 and Bhartiya Antariksha Station.
Hans India
22-04-2025
- Science
- Hans India
SpaDEX mission successfully achieves 2nd docking of satellites
New Delhi: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday said that the ISRO's SpaDEX mission has successfully achieved second docking of satellites. In a post on X social media platform, the minister said he is 'glad to inform that the second docking of satellites has been accomplished successfully'. 'As informed earlier, the PSLV-C60 / SPADEX mission was successfully launched on 30 December 2024. Thereafter the satellites were successfully docked for the first time on 16 January 2025 at 06:20 AM and successfully undocked on 13 March 2025 at 09:20 AM,' he mentioned. The minister further said that further experiments are planned in the next two weeks. In January, with the successful docking of the satellites of the SpaDEX mission, India became the fourth nation to ace the space docking technology. ISRO informed the merging of two small spacecraft -- SDX01, the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target -- weighing about 220 kg each. The satellites were part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, which lifted off aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, from Sriharikota on December 30. India is now the fourth country, after the US, Russia, and China, to master the docking technology. The docking technology was indigenously developed and has been named the 'Bharatiya Docking System'. It includes a docking mechanism, a suite of four rendezvous and docking sensors, power transfer technology, indigenous novel autonomous rendezvous and docking strategy, and an inter-satellite communication link (ISL) for autonomous communication between spacecraft, incorporated with inbuilt intelligence to know the states of the other spacecraft, among others. ISRO believes the SpaDeX mission will help establish India's capability in orbital docking -- a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions. In addition to joining the elite club of spacefaring nations, docking technology is also key for India's impending space missions including the Moon mission, setting up the Indian space station, and lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4 without the support of GNSS from Earth.
