1 January 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. A Tryst in Space

(Source – Indian Express, Section- The Editorial page- Page No. – 10)

Topic: GS3 – Science & Technology

Context

●       The article highlights ISRO’s transformative strides in space exploration, marked by the groundbreaking SpaDeX mission and its pivotal role in advancing India’s space ambitions.

 ISRO’s Milestone Mission – SpaDeX

• India’s premier space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its first space docking mission, SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment).
• The mission was initiated using the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), which successfully placed two satellites, “Chaser” and “Target,” into Earth’s lower orbit.
• Over the next week, ISRO scientists will execute meticulously planned maneuvers to bring the two spacecraft closer, culminating in their docking.
• This success would establish India as a member of the elite group of nations—alongside the US, Russia, and China—that possess space docking capabilities, which are essential for assembling heavy spacecraft, space stations, and lunar exploration missions.

SpaDeX: Pivotal for India’s Space Aspirations

• SpaDeX is not just a technological breakthrough but a cornerstone for India’s ambitious space projects.
• Docking capabilities are critical for future manned lunar missions, as well as the assembly and operation of India’s planned space station, Bharatiya Antariksha Station, which aims to be fully operational by 2030.
• Furthermore, this capability positions ISRO as a potential partner for global space collaborations that require docking infrastructure.
• The mission signifies ISRO’s evolution from launching satellites to spearheading complex interplanetary and manned missions.

Expanding Horizons: ISRO’s Transition to Planetary Exploration

• Over the past two years, ISRO has transformed from a satellite deployment agency into a leader in planetary exploration.
• The launch of Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-1 in 2023 marked the beginning of this new phase. In 2024, India established its first space observatory for studying cosmic X-ray polarization, further demonstrating its research capabilities.
• Additionally, the Venus Orbiter Mission and Chandrayaan-4, approved in September 2024, highlight ISRO’s focus on comprehensive planetary studies.
• Chandrayaan-4, designed to retrieve lunar samples, and the Venus mission underscore the agency’s readiness for more complex, multi-component operations.

Prepping for Human Spaceflight and Modular Missions

• ISRO is set to make its first attempt at human spaceflight in 2025, with precursor missions to be launched this year.
• These missions will lay the groundwork for assembling complex modules in space, an essential step for India’s space station.
• Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharatiya Antariksha Station exemplify this modular approach, as they involve launching separate components that will later integrate in space.
• SpaDeX serves as a critical testbed for these future endeavors.

Experimentation and Innovation: Cowpea Seeds in Space

• The payload of SpaDeX also includes experimental incubators, such as a box carrying eight cowpea seeds, which are expected to germinate and reach a two-leaf stage in space.
• This experiment highlights ISRO’s growing expertise in conducting innovative planetary research.
• It underscores the agency’s ability to explore life-supporting technologies critical for long-term human presence in space.

Conclusion: The Dawn of a New Era

• ISRO’s recent achievements symbolize a new era in Indian space exploration.
• By building docking capabilities, planning complex missions like Chandrayaan-4, and preparing for manned spaceflights, the agency is positioning itself at the forefront of global space research.
• As ISRO continues to innovate, its journey promises to inspire and contribute significantly to humanity’s understanding of space in the years to come.

Why is Space Docking Technology Crucial for India?

Modular Space Infrastructure: Docking is a prerequisite for constructing multi-modular space stations. It allows the assembly of structures in space, reducing the size and weight constraints of single-launch missions. Interplanetary and Lunar Missions: Docking supports orbital refueling, and payload exchange, enhancing mission flexibility for lunar bases and Mars exploration.                             ○It is crucial for future missions like Chandrayaan-4, space stations, and India’s                   planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). Human Spaceflight Program: Space Docking is critical for crew transfers and emergency evacuations during long-duration missions like Gaganyaan and beyond. Global Collaboration and Market Potential: SpaDeX could position India as the fourth nation, after Russia, the US, and China, to master space docking, strengthening its presence in satellite servicing and enabling advanced international collaborations. Satellite Servicing: Docking allows for repairing, refueling, and upgrading satellites, enhancing their operational life and performance.

PYQ: Consider the following statements: (2016) The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt  Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3  Ans: (c)

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of ISRO’s SpaDeX mission in advancing India’s space exploration capabilities and its implications for future manned missions and international collaborations. (150 Words /10 marks)

 

For more such UPSC related Current Affairs, Check Out: 31 December 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis