Following the success of the Indo-French &lsquo;Ardiden 1H1 Shakti&rsquo; engine co-developed for India&rsquo;s Advanced light helicopters that operate with the tri-services and Coast Guard, French aerospace giant Safran is now collaborating with the Indian government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to co-develop and build the &lsquo;Aravalli&rsquo; engines for the upcoming Indian multi-role helicopter, Philippe Errera, Executive Vice President, International and Public Affairs, Safran told WION.&nbsp; Furthering their presence in India, Safran, which is partially owned by the French Government, has established a manufacturing-cum-R&amp;D facility for electronic components in Bengaluru.
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He added that Safran, among the world leaders in civil and military jet engines, had made an unprecedented offer to India&mdash;for the co-design, co-development and co-production of jet engines for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is India&rsquo;s under-development 5th generation fighter jet. Jet engines comprise almost half the cost of a fighter jet, and this is a crucial technology that India has been unable to master on its own.
<h2>Aravalli Helicopter Engine</h2>
SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines in India, marks a significant milestone in India&rsquo;s aerospace and defence sector.
The engine named Aravalli is meant to power the 13-ton Medium Lift-class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both being designed and developed by HAL. The name Aravalli is derived from the mighty mountain range of India.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-slams-trump-for-living-in-disinformation-bubble-after-false-claim-on-approval-rating-8736468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Unfortunate': Zelensky slams Trump for living in &lsquo;disinformation bubble&rsquo; after false claim on approval rating</a>
IMRH is a new 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the requirements of the Indian armed forces. A naval version, the 12.5-ton DBMRH (Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter), is also being developed for the Indian Navy. The Aravalli engines will be designed to operate in diverse and challenging environments in which these helicopters will be deployed. It is envisioned that the IMRH can be offered to the civil aviation market for offshore operations, utility, VVIP transport, etc.
<h2>Rafale jets&rsquo; radar being made in India</h2>
The Indian Air Force operates 36 French-origin Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Specifically developed for Rafale, the RBE2 is the first in-service European Active Electronically Scanned Array radar and has been combat proven on Rafale aircraft operated by the French Air Force and the French Navy. The T/R (transmit/receive) modules are key to the RBE2 radar&rsquo;s active electronic scanning performance, enabling it to steer the radar beam with the speed of an electronic chip.
In line with the Make in India policy, Indian Government firm Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has manufactured the 7,000th T/R (transmit/receive) module for the RBE2 radar on-board the Dassault Aviation Rafale, and delivered it to Thales. This Thales-BEL cooperation has been expanded with the start-of-the production of advanced technological microwave modules dedicated to the Rafale SPECTRA EW (Electronic Warfare) suite.
<h2>HAMMER Missile - Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range</h2>
HAMMER is a French-origin medium-range air-to-surface weapon that is used against ground targets such as bunkers, hardened shelters. With a range of over 70 km, the system enables fighter aircraft to release the weapon from a relatively safe distance from enemy air defence systems. HAMMER can be integrated with bombs of varying sizes &ndash; 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg and 1000 kg. The HAMMER is a weapon that is in use on the Rafale aircraft and is meant to be used with India&rsquo;s indigenous Tejas jets as well. HAMMER will be made in India in partnership between Safran and Bharat Electronics Limited.
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World | India News: SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, dedicated to design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines, marks a significant milestone.

Following the success of the Indo-French ‘Ardiden 1H1 Shakti’ engine co-developed for India’s Advanced light helicopters that operate with the tri-services and Coast Guard, French aerospace giant Safran is now collaborating with the Indian government firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to co-develop and build the ‘Aravalli’ engines for the upcoming Indian multi-role helicopter, Philippe Errera, Executive Vice President, International and Public Affairs, Safran told WION. Furthering their presence in India, Safran, which is partially owned by the French Government, has established a manufacturing-cum-R&D facility for electronic components in Bengaluru. He added that Safran, among the world leaders in civil and military jet engines, had made an unprecedented offer to India—for the co-design, co-development and co-production of jet engines for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is India’s under-development 5th generation fighter jet. Jet engines comprise almost half the cost of a fighter jet, and this is a crucial technology that India has been unable to master on its own. Aravalli Helicopter Engine SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines in India, marks a significant milestone in India’s aerospace and defence sector. The engine named Aravalli is meant to power the 13-ton Medium Lift-class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both being designed and developed by HAL. The name Aravalli is derived from the mighty mountain range of India. Also read: 'Unfortunate': Zelensky slams Trump for living in ‘disinformation bubble’ after false claim on approval rating IMRH is a new 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the requirements of the Indian armed forces. A naval version, the 12.5-ton DBMRH (Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter), is also being developed for the Indian Navy. The Aravalli engines will be designed to operate in diverse and challenging environments in which these helicopters will be deployed. It is envisioned that the IMRH can be offered to the civil aviation market for offshore operations, utility, VVIP transport, etc. Rafale jets’ radar being made in India The Indian Air Force operates 36 French-origin Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Specifically developed for Rafale, the RBE2 is the first in-service European Active Electronically Scanned Array radar and has been combat proven on Rafale aircraft operated by the French Air Force and the French Navy. The T/R (transmit/receive) modules are key to the RBE2 radar’s active electronic scanning performance, enabling it to steer the radar beam with the speed of an electronic chip. In line with the Make in India policy, Indian Government firm Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has manufactured the 7,000th T/R (transmit/receive) module for the RBE2 radar on-board the Dassault Aviation Rafale, and delivered it to Thales. This Thales-BEL cooperation has been expanded with the start-of-the production of advanced technological microwave modules dedicated to the Rafale SPECTRA EW (Electronic Warfare) suite. HAMMER Missile - Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range HAMMER is a French-origin medium-range air-to-surface weapon that is used against ground targets such as bunkers, hardened shelters. With a range of over 70 km, the system enables fighter aircraft to release the weapon from a relatively safe distance from enemy air defence systems. HAMMER can be integrated with bombs of varying sizes – 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg and 1000 kg. The HAMMER is a weapon that is in use on the Rafale aircraft and is meant to be used with India’s indigenous Tejas jets as well. HAMMER will be made in India in partnership between Safran and Bharat Electronics Limited. Also read: Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report

India-France working on Rafale radars, helicopter engines, missiles

The UK-India defence partnership spans air, land, and maritime domains, the British High Commission's Air Adviser Group Captain Neil Jones told WION. He highlighted that this included Royal Navy ships' visit to India, Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon jets taking part in India's multilateral Tarang Shakti Air Exercise, and more. Further, the UK is working on identifying more opportunities to work with the Indian armed forces, and this includes bringing the UK's Carrier Strike group to the Indian Ocean region later this year.&nbsp;
At the recently concluded Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Indian and British firms expanded cooperation in high-end weapons systems and related technologies. With the knowledge and expertise available with our industry, we would like to really help India's growing defence industry, and ensure that UK is a leading nation in the Make-in-India initiative, Group Captain Jones added.&nbsp;
<h2>STARStreak Missiles</h2>
The UK and India have agreed to expand their collaboration on next-generation weapons with Thales and Indian Government firm Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). Thales and BDL have signed a contract that will deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), with an initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers to be delivered this year. This contract represents an important next step for UK-Indian defence co-operation in the critical area of air defence.
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The STARStreak is lightweight missile designed for short-range air defence (SHORAD). It is soldier portable and capable of engaging with diverse threats including attack helicopters, unmanned aerial systems and light-skinned armoured vehicles at a range of 6km. At a speed greater than Mach 3.0(three times the speed of sound), it is said to be the fastest missile in the market among its SHORAD competitors.&nbsp;
Manufactured by Thales in the UK, STARStreak first saw active service during the Iraq conflict in 2003 and over the last 19 years it has been deployed on multiple operations by the UK and global users. The High Velocity Missile uses a system of three dart-like projectiles, allowing multiple hits on the target. It can be fired from the shoulder, from a lightweight multiple launcher or from an armoured vehicle.&nbsp;
<h2>Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM)</h2>
The Lightweight Multi-role Missile (LMM) is a lightweight, precision strike, multirole missile. LMM is designed to be fired from a variety of tactical platforms on land, air, and sea against a wide range of conventional and asymmetric threats, including armoured personnel carriers, fast attack boats (FIAC) and drones.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-railway-station-stampede-rpf-identifies-lapses-behind-fatal-chaos-that-killed-18-8731261" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">New Delhi railway station stampede: RPF identifies lapses behind fatal chaos that killed 18</a>
Thales and BDL will collaborate to produce the Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). This develops and expands the partnership between Indian and British industry, laying the foundation for BDL and Indian industry to form an integral part of Thales&rsquo; global supply chain. It will address mutual security concerns, create jobs in both countries and enable interoperability by both armies.
<h2>Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM)</h2>
MBDA UK and BDL have been working together on the installation of a first-of-its-kind Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad, arming current fleet of India&rsquo;s fighter jets as well as exporting to the world.
During Within-Visual-Range air combat, the ability to strike first is vital. A pilot engaging an enemy needs a missile that is able to react more rapidly, with the speed and agility to maximise the probability of a kill regardless of the target aircraft&rsquo;s evasive manoeuvres or the deployment of countermeasures. ASRAAM is in service with the UK Royal Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force. India has also ordered the weapon for its Jaguar aircraft.
<h2>Electric Propulsion for Indian warships</h2>
On the maritime front, the UK and India have signed a Statement of Intent to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India&rsquo;s next generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. The LPD class of ships are designed to transport troops, vehicles into a war zone by sea, primarily using landing crafts.
In this regard, GE Vernova and Indian Government's Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited(BHEL) are working to develop India&rsquo;s first maritime Land Based Testing Facility to deliver LPD in the water by 2030. The landmark maritime electric propulsion capability transfer is meant to ensure self-reliance in the power and propulsion of the Indian Navy&rsquo;s next generation fleets.

The UK is working on identifying more opportunities to work with the Indian armed forces, and this includes bringing the UK's Carrier Strike group to the Indian Ocean region.

The UK-India defence partnership spans air, land, and maritime domains, the British High Commission's Air Adviser Group Captain Neil Jones told WION. He highlighted that this included Royal Navy ships' visit to India, Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon jets taking part in India's multilateral Tarang Shakti Air Exercise, and more. Further, the UK is working on identifying more opportunities to work with the Indian armed forces, and this includes bringing the UK's Carrier Strike group to the Indian Ocean region later this year. At the recently concluded Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Indian and British firms expanded cooperation in high-end weapons systems and related technologies. With the knowledge and expertise available with our industry, we would like to really help India's growing defence industry, and ensure that UK is a leading nation in the Make-in-India initiative, Group Captain Jones added. STARStreak Missiles The UK and India have agreed to expand their collaboration on next-generation weapons with Thales and Indian Government firm Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). Thales and BDL have signed a contract that will deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), with an initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers to be delivered this year. This contract represents an important next step for UK-Indian defence co-operation in the critical area of air defence. Also Read: Who is Gyanesh Kumar, India's newly appointed Chief Election Commissioner? The STARStreak is lightweight missile designed for short-range air defence (SHORAD). It is soldier portable and capable of engaging with diverse threats including attack helicopters, unmanned aerial systems and light-skinned armoured vehicles at a range of 6km. At a speed greater than Mach 3.0(three times the speed of sound), it is said to be the fastest missile in the market among its SHORAD competitors. Manufactured by Thales in the UK, STARStreak first saw active service during the Iraq conflict in 2003 and over the last 19 years it has been deployed on multiple operations by the UK and global users. The High Velocity Missile uses a system of three dart-like projectiles, allowing multiple hits on the target. It can be fired from the shoulder, from a lightweight multiple launcher or from an armoured vehicle. Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) The Lightweight Multi-role Missile (LMM) is a lightweight, precision strike, multirole missile. LMM is designed to be fired from a variety of tactical platforms on land, air, and sea against a wide range of conventional and asymmetric threats, including armoured personnel carriers, fast attack boats (FIAC) and drones. Also Read: New Delhi railway station stampede: RPF identifies lapses behind fatal chaos that killed 18 Thales and BDL will collaborate to produce the Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). This develops and expands the partnership between Indian and British industry, laying the foundation for BDL and Indian industry to form an integral part of Thales’ global supply chain. It will address mutual security concerns, create jobs in both countries and enable interoperability by both armies. Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) MBDA UK and BDL have been working together on the installation of a first-of-its-kind Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad, arming current fleet of India’s fighter jets as well as exporting to the world. During Within-Visual-Range air combat, the ability to strike first is vital. A pilot engaging an enemy needs a missile that is able to react more rapidly, with the speed and agility to maximise the probability of a kill regardless of the target aircraft’s evasive manoeuvres or the deployment of countermeasures. ASRAAM is in service with the UK Royal Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force. India has also ordered the weapon for its Jaguar aircraft. Electric Propulsion for Indian warships On the maritime front, the UK and India have signed a Statement of Intent to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. The LPD class of ships are designed to transport troops, vehicles into a war zone by sea, primarily using landing crafts. In this regard, GE Vernova and Indian Government's Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited(BHEL) are working to develop India’s first maritime Land Based Testing Facility to deliver LPD in the water by 2030. The landmark maritime electric propulsion capability transfer is meant to ensure self-reliance in the power and propulsion of the Indian Navy’s next generation fleets.

UK-India working on missile variants, electric propulsion for warships

India&rsquo;s domestic defence production for 2024&ndash;25 stands at Rs.1.27 lakh crore (approximately $15 billion), and by the end of 2025&ndash;26, it could rise to 1.60 lakh crore (approximately $19 billion). Likewise, India&rsquo;s defence exports have touched Rs. 21,000 crore (approx $2.4 billion) in 2024-25, and by the end of 2025-26, the figure is likely to touch Rs. 30,000 crore (approx $3.5 billion), said Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, ahead of the commencement of the Aero India 2025, which is India&rsquo;s largest aerospace event.&nbsp; The minister expressed confidence that India sees the defence sector as a key driver of economic growth.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-talked-to-putin-says-russian-president-wants-to-see-people-stop-dying-in-ukraine-war-report-8703614" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president &lsquo;wants to see people stop dying&rsquo; in Ukraine war: Report</a>
The five-day Aero India event at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, starting on Monday, 10th Feb, will see the participation of 931 exhibitors from around the world, with more than 7 lakh attendees expected. At least 70 aircraft will be dazzling the skies at the event by performing stunning aerobatic manoeuvres, while there will be more than 30 aircraft on static display at the tarmac. The event is spread across 42,000 square metres.
The first Aero India show was held at Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru, in 1996, organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence. The ongoing Aero India is the 15th iteration of the show.
<h2>American and Russian participation at Aero India</h2>
The F-16 multi-role fighter jet, the 5th generation stealth fighter aircraft F-35, the flying fuel tanker KC-135 &lsquo;Stratotanker&rsquo;, and the B-1B Lancer long-range, heavy bomber are the frontline American aircraft that will be showcased at the event.&nbsp; Hosted by the Indian Defence Ministry, Aero India is dubbed Asia&rsquo;s largest aerospace and defence show, with exhibits of aerospace components, cutting-edge defence systems, aircraft on static and flying display. Notably, this is the only event in the world to feature both the American Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet and the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter jet, both of which are the latest stealth aircraft from the respective aerospace superpowers.
At Aero India 2025, more than two dozen American exhibitors will engage Indian counterparts, explore new business opportunities, and demonstrate innovative solutions in aviation and defence. These companies will display advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), fighter aircraft, advanced avionics, and defence electronics, read a statement from the US Consulate General, Chennai.
U.S. Embassy New Delhi Charg&eacute; d&rsquo;Affaires Jorgan Andrews will lead the high-level U.S. delegation of representatives from the U.S. Departments of State, Defence, and Commerce. Andrews said, &ldquo;The United States is excited to once again participate in Aero India and to spotlight our strong defence ties with India. Our cooperation in defence, trade, and training is integral to our growing strategic partnership.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims</a> America and Russia, both major defence and aerospace powers, have sold wide-ranging military hardware to India. While Indian military hardware is predominantly of Soviet or Russian-origin, India has made over $25 billion worth of defence purchases from the US in recent decades.&nbsp; US and Russia are showcasing their latest stealth fighter jets, also known as 5th generation jets, at a time when India faces a dwindling fighter jet fleet. Notably, even the latest French-origin Rafale jets procured for the Indian Air Force are of 4th or 4.5 generation classification, and India does not possess 5th generation fighter jets, which are designed and made for being less visible on radar.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-elon-musks-doge-us-treasury-department-shakeup-could-be-biggest-security-breach-in-us-history-8704805" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Massive risks': How Elon Musk&rsquo;s Treasury shakeup could be &lsquo;biggest security breach in US history'</a>
Meanwhile, China has a rapidly-expanding fleet comprising hundreds J-20 stealth fighters. Recently, China also showcased its J-35 stealth fighter jet, one that bore close external resemblance to the American F-35. Videos emerging from Chinese social media platforms also indicate that China is test flying 6th generation fighter jets. There are also rising concerns about China offering their 5th generation jets to Pakistan, which could lead to altering the military balance in India&rsquo;s neighbourhood.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-before-after-pics-of-pale-gaunt-hostages-freed-by-hamas-8704096" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;There are no words&rsquo;: Before and after pics of pale, gaunt Israeli hostages raise concerns</a>
&nbsp;

India News: At Aero India 2025, more than two dozen American exhibitors will engage Indian counterparts, explore new business opportunities, and demonstrate innovative solutions in aviation and defence.

India’s domestic defence production for 2024–25 stands at Rs.1.27 lakh crore (approximately $15 billion), and by the end of 2025–26, it could rise to 1.60 lakh crore (approximately $19 billion). Likewise, India’s defence exports have touched Rs. 21,000 crore (approx $2.4 billion) in 2024-25, and by the end of 2025-26, the figure is likely to touch Rs. 30,000 crore (approx $3.5 billion), said Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, ahead of the commencement of the Aero India 2025, which is India’s largest aerospace event. The minister expressed confidence that India sees the defence sector as a key driver of economic growth. Also read: Trump talks to Putin, says Russian president ‘wants to see people stop dying’ in Ukraine war: Report The five-day Aero India event at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, starting on Monday, 10th Feb, will see the participation of 931 exhibitors from around the world, with more than 7 lakh attendees expected. At least 70 aircraft will be dazzling the skies at the event by performing stunning aerobatic manoeuvres, while there will be more than 30 aircraft on static display at the tarmac. The event is spread across 42,000 square metres. The first Aero India show was held at Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru, in 1996, organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence. The ongoing Aero India is the 15th iteration of the show. American and Russian participation at Aero India The F-16 multi-role fighter jet, the 5th generation stealth fighter aircraft F-35, the flying fuel tanker KC-135 ‘Stratotanker’, and the B-1B Lancer long-range, heavy bomber are the frontline American aircraft that will be showcased at the event. Hosted by the Indian Defence Ministry, Aero India is dubbed Asia’s largest aerospace and defence show, with exhibits of aerospace components, cutting-edge defence systems, aircraft on static and flying display. Notably, this is the only event in the world to feature both the American Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet and the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter jet, both of which are the latest stealth aircraft from the respective aerospace superpowers. At Aero India 2025, more than two dozen American exhibitors will engage Indian counterparts, explore new business opportunities, and demonstrate innovative solutions in aviation and defence. These companies will display advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), fighter aircraft, advanced avionics, and defence electronics, read a statement from the US Consulate General, Chennai. U.S. Embassy New Delhi Chargé d’Affaires Jorgan Andrews will lead the high-level U.S. delegation of representatives from the U.S. Departments of State, Defence, and Commerce. Andrews said, “The United States is excited to once again participate in Aero India and to spotlight our strong defence ties with India. Our cooperation in defence, trade, and training is integral to our growing strategic partnership.” Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims America and Russia, both major defence and aerospace powers, have sold wide-ranging military hardware to India. While Indian military hardware is predominantly of Soviet or Russian-origin, India has made over $25 billion worth of defence purchases from the US in recent decades. US and Russia are showcasing their latest stealth fighter jets, also known as 5th generation jets, at a time when India faces a dwindling fighter jet fleet. Notably, even the latest French-origin Rafale jets procured for the Indian Air Force are of 4th or 4.5 generation classification, and India does not possess 5th generation fighter jets, which are designed and made for being less visible on radar. Also read: 'Massive risks': How Elon Musk’s Treasury shakeup could be ‘biggest security breach in US history' Meanwhile, China has a rapidly-expanding fleet comprising hundreds J-20 stealth fighters. Recently, China also showcased its J-35 stealth fighter jet, one that bore close external resemblance to the American F-35. Videos emerging from Chinese social media platforms also indicate that China is test flying 6th generation fighter jets. There are also rising concerns about China offering their 5th generation jets to Pakistan, which could lead to altering the military balance in India’s neighbourhood. Also read: ‘There are no words’: Before and after pics of pale, gaunt Israeli hostages raise concerns

US brings F-16, F-35 fighter jets, Russia to showcase Su-57 at Aero India

Indian Space agency ISRO's NVS-02 satellite that is meant to serve strategic purposes, remains stuck in its initial orbit and it has not been possible to move it to its intended orbit, ISRO said. Satellites have to be placed in their precise orbital slots to perform their designated role.&nbsp;
Satellites are moved from one orbit to another by firing their liquid-fuelled engines that burn a fuel and oxidizer combination. In this case, it has not been possible to fire the engine and raise the satellite's orbit, due to an issue with the valve that releases the oxidizer. The 2,250kg NVS-02 satellite was launched by a GSLV-Mk2 rocket on January 29th, in what was ISRO's 100th rocket launch mission from the country's premier Sriharikota spaceport.&nbsp;
The satellite was launched into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), which is usually used as an initial parking orbit for heavy satellites. Approximately, the satellite was launched into an orbit that is highly elliptical- 170kms above Earth at its nearest approach (perigee) and 36,500kms at its farthest approach from Earth (apogee). Typically, a series of engine firings are performed to place the satellite into a circular orbit, where it is approximately 35,700 km above Earth.
<h2>The dangers of circling in GTO</h2>
ISRO has stated that the satellite systems are healthy, elaborating that it is generating power from its solar panels and communicating with the stations on Earth. "Alternate mission strategies for utilising the satellite for navigation in an elliptical orbit is being worked out," it was added.
However, it must be noted that GTO is not a perfectly stable orbit and is meant to be only a temporary parking slot, before moving the satellite into a higher orbit.&nbsp;
At the perigee (closest approach to Earth), when the satellite is barely 170 kms above Earth, it experiences considerable amounts of drag, which gradually pulls the satellite closer to Earth. The prolonged impact of drag could eventually pull the satellite and make it re-enter the earth's atmosphere, causing it to burn up. The closer the satellite is to Earth, the higher the risk of drag and eventual destruction, especially when the primary engines of the satellite aren't able to steer it away from Earth.&nbsp;
ISRO has not revealed whether some of the smaller thrusters on the satellite, known as Attitude Control Systems, are working. In case they are working, it could theoretically be possible to considerably extend the life of the satellite by moving it further from Earth, as ISRO had demonstrated in a past mission that faced a similar setback.&nbsp;
<h2>NVS-02 and the GPS-like service it is meant to enable</h2>
Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) is India&rsquo;s independent regional navigation satellite system designed to provide accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) service to users in India and its vicinity. Simply put, it is a service similar to the American GPS, the Russian GLONASS or Chinese Beidou. While the aforementioned foreign services are available globally, the Indian NAVIC is only available in the Indian mainland and 1500 km beyond. NVS-series satellites are meant to augment the existing NavIC services that a provided by an earlier generation of satellites. NVS-02 is the second in the series of five satellites of this class. NVS-01 was launched into orbit in 2023.&nbsp;

Science & Tech India News | It has not been possible to fire the engine and raise the satellite's orbit, due to an issue with the valve that releases the oxidizer. 

Indian Space agency ISRO's NVS-02 satellite that is meant to serve strategic purposes, remains stuck in its initial orbit and it has not been possible to move it to its intended orbit, ISRO said. Satellites have to be placed in their precise orbital slots to perform their designated role. Satellites are moved from one orbit to another by firing their liquid-fuelled engines that burn a fuel and oxidizer combination. In this case, it has not been possible to fire the engine and raise the satellite's orbit, due to an issue with the valve that releases the oxidizer. The 2,250kg NVS-02 satellite was launched by a GSLV-Mk2 rocket on January 29th, in what was ISRO's 100th rocket launch mission from the country's premier Sriharikota spaceport. The satellite was launched into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), which is usually used as an initial parking orbit for heavy satellites. Approximately, the satellite was launched into an orbit that is highly elliptical- 170kms above Earth at its nearest approach (perigee) and 36,500kms at its farthest approach from Earth (apogee). Typically, a series of engine firings are performed to place the satellite into a circular orbit, where it is approximately 35,700 km above Earth. The dangers of circling in GTO ISRO has stated that the satellite systems are healthy, elaborating that it is generating power from its solar panels and communicating with the stations on Earth. "Alternate mission strategies for utilising the satellite for navigation in an elliptical orbit is being worked out," it was added. However, it must be noted that GTO is not a perfectly stable orbit and is meant to be only a temporary parking slot, before moving the satellite into a higher orbit. At the perigee (closest approach to Earth), when the satellite is barely 170 kms above Earth, it experiences considerable amounts of drag, which gradually pulls the satellite closer to Earth. The prolonged impact of drag could eventually pull the satellite and make it re-enter the earth's atmosphere, causing it to burn up. The closer the satellite is to Earth, the higher the risk of drag and eventual destruction, especially when the primary engines of the satellite aren't able to steer it away from Earth. ISRO has not revealed whether some of the smaller thrusters on the satellite, known as Attitude Control Systems, are working. In case they are working, it could theoretically be possible to considerably extend the life of the satellite by moving it further from Earth, as ISRO had demonstrated in a past mission that faced a similar setback. NVS-02 and the GPS-like service it is meant to enable Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) is India’s independent regional navigation satellite system designed to provide accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) service to users in India and its vicinity. Simply put, it is a service similar to the American GPS, the Russian GLONASS or Chinese Beidou. While the aforementioned foreign services are available globally, the Indian NAVIC is only available in the Indian mainland and 1500 km beyond. NVS-series satellites are meant to augment the existing NavIC services that a provided by an earlier generation of satellites. NVS-02 is the second in the series of five satellites of this class. NVS-01 was launched into orbit in 2023.

ISRO's NVS-02 satellite stuck in initial orbit, survival uncertain

If all goes per plan, Indian Air Force fighter pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will fly to the International Space Station between May and June this year on an American commercial mission Axiom-4, which will be launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, WION has learned. This comes 41 years after India&rsquo;s first and only astronaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, flew on a Soviet mission to the then Salyut-7 space station. Interestingly, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is now known by the Axiom-4 callsign &lsquo;Shuks&rsquo;, was born in 1985, a year after Rakesh Sharma&rsquo;s spaceflight.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6jmi7sl-2uqrh0n1-nkn9css5">
&ldquo;Collaboration on Human Spaceflight, including sending an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> astronaut to the International <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> station in 2024&rdquo; says <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> as he lists out areas of bilateral cooperation between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> Travel to <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> &amp; working there will prep astronauts for Gaganyaan <a href="https://t.co/mJfcX4sKdP">pic.twitter.com/mJfcX4sKdP</a>
&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1672074359031361537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
The Axiom-4 mission is a result of deepening Indo-US Space cooperation, which came to the fore during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s state visit to the United States in June 2023. Back then, President Biden had announced Indo-US collaboration on human spaceflight and the mission to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station, marking the highest point in India-US space ties.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-coming-out-sunita-williams-conducts-spacewalk-after-being-stuck-in-orbit-for-seven-months-8628341" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months</a>
Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the two-week-long Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project aastronauts Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-nasa-astronaut-shares-breathtaking-pics-of-well-lit-kumbh-from-space-station-8656967" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: NASA astronaut shares breathtaking PICS of 'well lit' Kumbh from space station</a>
In July 2024, WION exclusively reported that Indian astronauts would commence their training at NASA&rsquo;s Johnson Space Center, Texas, from early August. NASA&rsquo;s Johnson Center is known as the Hub of Human Spaceflight in the US. Established in 1961, this facility in Houston, Texas, started off as the Manned Spacecraft Centre, the home and Mission Control Center for the US Human Spaceflight programme. In 1973, the facility was renamed in honour of the late President and Texas native Lyndon B Johnson.
<h2>How will Axiom-4 help India&rsquo;s Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight programme?</h2>
Gaganyaan is India&rsquo;s attempt at launching its astronauts to space and returning them safely, using an indigenously developed rocket, spacecraft, and supporting technologies. Gaganyaan was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, and it is the first step in a series of sustained human spaceflight missions that the Indian Space agency ISRO wants to carry out in a phased manner. By the end of this decade, India hopes to put an uncrewed space station in Earth&rsquo;s orbit. By 2035, it would be used as a crewed Indian outpost circling the earth. By 2040, India is targeting a crewed moon landing, a feat that only America has accomplished in 1969, and China hopes to accomplish by the end of this decade.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-live-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-step-of-international-space-station-for-first-spacewalk-together-8675770">Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk together</a>
The Gaganyaan mission would be carried out by the Indian Space Agency ISRO, with test pilots of the Indian Air Force, serving as the crew members. The four candidates&mdash;Group Captains Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, Shubhanshu Shukla, Ajit Krishnan, and Angad Pratap&mdash;had completed their training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre, Moscow, in 2021. Since then, they have also undergone several theoretical and practical sessions at ISRO's Human Spaceflight Centre and the Indian Air Force&rsquo;s Institute of Aerospace Medicine. They have also been visiting various ISRO centres, such as ISRO&rsquo;s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, and Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. For the Axiom-4 mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prashant Balakrishnan Nair have been training in the US, with the former as the primary candidate and the latter as the backup candidate.
 The Axiom-4 mission is meant to serve as a precursor to India&rsquo;s Gaganyaan, as Shukla&rsquo;s spaceflight would help India gain contemporary spaceflight experience, as well as valuable technological and experiential insights. While serving as ISRO Chief, Dr. S. Somanath had explained to WION that human spaceflight is a highly challenging endeavour and that India only had the limited experience of Rakesh Sharma&rsquo;s flight in 1984.
 He had added that the Indian astronaut (Shukla) flying to the International Space Station would immensely benefit the Gaganyaan programme. Notably, the maiden spaceflight by an Indian was on a Soviet-era Soyuz T-11 spacecraft, and since then the technologies have changed drastically. Presently, in America, SpaceX is the lone entity that has a track record of reliably ferrying astronauts to the space station on their Crew Dragon craft, while Boeing has faced technical troubles with its Starliner craft.
In 2025, India is expected to execute the first of the three uncrewed Gaganyaan missions. After these uncrewed missions and related testing processes are flawlessly accomplished, India hopes to embark on the astronaut-carrying mission, perhaps by 2027.

SCIENCE & TECH | World | India News: Interestingly, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is now known by the Axiom-4 callsign ‘Shuks’, was born in 1985, a year after Rakesh Sharma’s spaceflight.

If all goes per plan, Indian Air Force fighter pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will fly to the International Space Station between May and June this year on an American commercial mission Axiom-4, which will be launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, WION has learned. This comes 41 years after India’s first and only astronaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, flew on a Soviet mission to the then Salyut-7 space station. Interestingly, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is now known by the Axiom-4 callsign ‘Shuks’, was born in 1985, a year after Rakesh Sharma’s spaceflight. “Collaboration on Human Spaceflight, including sending an #Indian astronaut to the International #space station in 2024” says @POTUS as he lists out areas of bilateral cooperation between #india & #USA Travel to @Space_Station & working there will prep astronauts for Gaganyaan pic.twitter.com/mJfcX4sKdP — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) June 23, 2023 The Axiom-4 mission is a result of deepening Indo-US Space cooperation, which came to the fore during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States in June 2023. Back then, President Biden had announced Indo-US collaboration on human spaceflight and the mission to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station, marking the highest point in India-US space ties. Also read: 'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the two-week-long Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project aastronauts Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Also read: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: NASA astronaut shares breathtaking PICS of 'well lit' Kumbh from space station In July 2024, WION exclusively reported that Indian astronauts would commence their training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Texas, from early August. NASA’s Johnson Center is known as the Hub of Human Spaceflight in the US. Established in 1961, this facility in Houston, Texas, started off as the Manned Spacecraft Centre, the home and Mission Control Center for the US Human Spaceflight programme. In 1973, the facility was renamed in honour of the late President and Texas native Lyndon B Johnson. How will Axiom-4 help India’s Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight programme? Gaganyaan is India’s attempt at launching its astronauts to space and returning them safely, using an indigenously developed rocket, spacecraft, and supporting technologies. Gaganyaan was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, and it is the first step in a series of sustained human spaceflight missions that the Indian Space agency ISRO wants to carry out in a phased manner. By the end of this decade, India hopes to put an uncrewed space station in Earth’s orbit. By 2035, it would be used as a crewed Indian outpost circling the earth. By 2040, India is targeting a crewed moon landing, a feat that only America has accomplished in 1969, and China hopes to accomplish by the end of this decade. Also Read | Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk together The Gaganyaan mission would be carried out by the Indian Space Agency ISRO, with test pilots of the Indian Air Force, serving as the crew members. The four candidates—Group Captains Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, Shubhanshu Shukla, Ajit Krishnan, and Angad Pratap—had completed their training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre, Moscow, in 2021. Since then, they have also undergone several theoretical and practical sessions at ISRO's Human Spaceflight Centre and the Indian Air Force’s Institute of Aerospace Medicine. They have also been visiting various ISRO centres, such as ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, and Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. For the Axiom-4 mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prashant Balakrishnan Nair have been training in the US, with the former as the primary candidate and the latter as the backup candidate. The Axiom-4 mission is meant to serve as a precursor to India’s Gaganyaan, as Shukla’s spaceflight would help India gain contemporary spaceflight experience, as well as valuable technological and experiential insights. While serving as ISRO Chief, Dr. S. Somanath had explained to WION that human spaceflight is a highly challenging endeavour and that India only had the limited experience of Rakesh Sharma’s flight in 1984. He had added that the Indian astronaut (Shukla) flying to the International Space Station would immensely benefit the Gaganyaan programme. Notably, the maiden spaceflight by an Indian was on a Soviet-era Soyuz T-11 spacecraft, and since then the technologies have changed drastically. Presently, in America, SpaceX is the lone entity that has a track record of reliably ferrying astronauts to the space station on their Crew Dragon craft, while Boeing has faced technical troubles with its Starliner craft. In 2025, India is expected to execute the first of the three uncrewed Gaganyaan missions. After these uncrewed missions and related testing processes are flawlessly accomplished, India hopes to embark on the astronaut-carrying mission, perhaps by 2027.

Exclusive: Indian astronaut ‘Shuks’ to fly to space in May 2025

At 2:53am on Tuesday, 28th January, Indian Space agency ISRO commenced the countdown to its 100th rocket launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The GSLV Mk2 rocket carrying the indigenous GPS-like NVS-02 satellite is to liftoff at 6:23am on Wednesday, 29th January. The countdown is a well-planned technical process when health checks of various systems of the rocket and satellite are carried out, and the liquid-fuel stages of the rocket are tanked up.&nbsp;
In a launch mission that spans a little over 19minutes, the 50.9meters tall GSLV F-15 rocket will hurl the 2,250kg NVS-02 satellite into a Geosynchronous transfer orbit. In the weeks after launch, the satellite will use its on-board engines to reach its final orbit. NVS-02 is the second in the series of five Indian Next-generation Navigation satellites. ISRO is working towards launching three more satellites in the coming years.&nbsp;
<h2>NVS-02 and the GPS-like service it enables</h2>
Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) is India&rsquo;s independent regional navigation satellite system designed to provide accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) service to users in India and its vicinity. Simply put, it is a service similar to the American GPS or Russian GLONASS or Chinese Beidou. While the aforementioned foreign services are available globally, the Indian NAVIC is only available in the Indian mainland and 1500kms beyond. NVS-series satellites are meant to augment the existing NavIC services that a provided by an earlier generation of satellites.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/ais-sputnik-moment-chinas-cheap-ai-app-deepseek-overtakes-billion-dollar-chatgpt-8658617" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> 'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT</a>
The earlier series of NavIC satellites had a shortcoming &mdash; they operated only in the L5-band and S-band frequencies. This was because India hadn't received the International Telecommunication Union authorisation for using the L1 and L2 frequency bands, which are widely used worldwide for navigation services. It was after the European constellation Galileo was granted permission to use the L1 band, that India also requested for the same and obtained it.&nbsp;
"L1 band is available on the NVS-series of satellites(and will be available on subsequent NVS satellites), it is an interoperable frequency and can be used across all chipsets(of mobile devices), provided they use our signal architecture," Dr Somanath had told WION, when he headed the agency.&nbsp;
Earlier, the Indian government and ISRO had been making efforts to make chipmakers and phone manufacturers adopt the L5 and S-band frequencies(which the original NavIC series used). However, this was met with various roadblocks as L5 and S were not civilian-use frequencies. Therefore, phone makers had to put in additional chipsets and hardware to make their devices NavIC-compatible, thus making their devices costlier. &nbsp;A mix of such technological and cost barriers meant that phone makers did not widely adopt NavIC and millions of Indian smartphone users couldn't benefit from it.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/crew-module-dispatched-for-isros-first-uncrewed-mission-of-gaganyaan-8645407" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Crew module dispatched for ISRO&rsquo;s first uncrewed mission of Gaganyaan</a>
With NavIC being operational on the L1 frequency band, and when all other satellites in the NVS fleet are service-ready, all mobile phones used in India can be made compatible with NavIC. This is possible without any additional investment and extra hardware from the manufacturer's end. Phone manufacturers will have to roll out some software updates alone, as all mobile chipsets are compatible with the L1 band that the NVS series of satellites will be using.
<h2>Six generation of rockets launched from Sriharikota&nbsp;</h2>
ISRO has launched six generations of spacefaring rockets from India's spaceport at Sriharikota, Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This includes the first Indian spacefaring rocket SLV-3(Satellite Launch Vehicle-3) and its successor, the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle(ASLV). Thereafter came the PSLV, GSLV Mk and GSLV Mk3(now LVM3), and SSLV rocket.&nbsp;
The Indian Government has now approved almost $460mn for the construction of a third launchpad at Sriharikota. This is meant to execute the launches of India's Next-generation launch vehicle.

Science & Technology | In a launch mission  of ISRO that spans a little over 19minutes, the 50.9meters tall GSLV F-15 rocket will hurl the 2,250kg NVS-02 satellite into a Geosynchronous transfer orbit.

At 2:53am on Tuesday, 28th January, Indian Space agency ISRO commenced the countdown to its 100th rocket launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The GSLV Mk2 rocket carrying the indigenous GPS-like NVS-02 satellite is to liftoff at 6:23am on Wednesday, 29th January. The countdown is a well-planned technical process when health checks of various systems of the rocket and satellite are carried out, and the liquid-fuel stages of the rocket are tanked up. In a launch mission that spans a little over 19minutes, the 50.9meters tall GSLV F-15 rocket will hurl the 2,250kg NVS-02 satellite into a Geosynchronous transfer orbit. In the weeks after launch, the satellite will use its on-board engines to reach its final orbit. NVS-02 is the second in the series of five Indian Next-generation Navigation satellites. ISRO is working towards launching three more satellites in the coming years. NVS-02 and the GPS-like service it enables Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) is India’s independent regional navigation satellite system designed to provide accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) service to users in India and its vicinity. Simply put, it is a service similar to the American GPS or Russian GLONASS or Chinese Beidou. While the aforementioned foreign services are available globally, the Indian NAVIC is only available in the Indian mainland and 1500kms beyond. NVS-series satellites are meant to augment the existing NavIC services that a provided by an earlier generation of satellites. Also Read: 'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT The earlier series of NavIC satellites had a shortcoming — they operated only in the L5-band and S-band frequencies. This was because India hadn't received the International Telecommunication Union authorisation for using the L1 and L2 frequency bands, which are widely used worldwide for navigation services. It was after the European constellation Galileo was granted permission to use the L1 band, that India also requested for the same and obtained it. "L1 band is available on the NVS-series of satellites(and will be available on subsequent NVS satellites), it is an interoperable frequency and can be used across all chipsets(of mobile devices), provided they use our signal architecture," Dr Somanath had told WION, when he headed the agency. Earlier, the Indian government and ISRO had been making efforts to make chipmakers and phone manufacturers adopt the L5 and S-band frequencies(which the original NavIC series used). However, this was met with various roadblocks as L5 and S were not civilian-use frequencies. Therefore, phone makers had to put in additional chipsets and hardware to make their devices NavIC-compatible, thus making their devices costlier. A mix of such technological and cost barriers meant that phone makers did not widely adopt NavIC and millions of Indian smartphone users couldn't benefit from it. Also Read: Crew module dispatched for ISRO’s first uncrewed mission of Gaganyaan With NavIC being operational on the L1 frequency band, and when all other satellites in the NVS fleet are service-ready, all mobile phones used in India can be made compatible with NavIC. This is possible without any additional investment and extra hardware from the manufacturer's end. Phone manufacturers will have to roll out some software updates alone, as all mobile chipsets are compatible with the L1 band that the NVS series of satellites will be using. Six generation of rockets launched from Sriharikota ISRO has launched six generations of spacefaring rockets from India's spaceport at Sriharikota, Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This includes the first Indian spacefaring rocket SLV-3(Satellite Launch Vehicle-3) and its successor, the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle(ASLV). Thereafter came the PSLV, GSLV Mk and GSLV Mk3(now LVM3), and SSLV rocket. The Indian Government has now approved almost $460mn for the construction of a third launchpad at Sriharikota. This is meant to execute the launches of India's Next-generation launch vehicle.

Countdown underway for ISRO's 100th rocket launch

The Indian Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 15) approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at ISRO&rsquo;s spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Indian Government envisages the construction of the TLP and related facilities at a cost of Rs. 3985 crore (approx. $460 million) within a span of four years.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/isro-accomplishes-space-docking-india-fifth-nation-to-do-so-globally-8625833" rel="dofollow">ISRO's SpaDeX Mission successful: India becomes 4th nation to accomplish space docking</a>
At present, the Indian spaceport at Sriharikota is equipped with two launchpads. The first launchpad is meant for smaller rockets such as the PSLV and SSLV, and the GSLV Mk2, while the second launchpad is capable of launching all rockets right from the smallest SSLV to the largest LVM3. However, the first launchpad has served for more than 30 years, whereas the second launchpad has served for more than 20 years.
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The Third Launch Pad project is meant to enable the launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) of ISRO and also to support as a standby launch pad for the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota. This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions.&nbsp;
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The TLP will support the more capable semi-cryogenic engine variant of the LVM3 rocket and also the scaled-up version of India&rsquo;s proposed NGLV rocket. The new launch pad will be built with maximum industry participation, fully utilising ISRO&rsquo;s experience in establishing the earlier launch pads and maximally sharing the existing launch complex facilities.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
The TLP project will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions such as regular missions to the proposed Indian space station and manned missions to the moon.
&nbsp;

India News | Science & Tech | Trending: The TLP will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling more launches and to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions

The Indian Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (January 15) approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at ISRO’s spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Indian Government envisages the construction of the TLP and related facilities at a cost of Rs. 3985 crore (approx. $460 million) within a span of four years. Also Read | ISRO's SpaDeX Mission successful: India becomes 4th nation to accomplish space docking At present, the Indian spaceport at Sriharikota is equipped with two launchpads. The first launchpad is meant for smaller rockets such as the PSLV and SSLV, and the GSLV Mk2, while the second launchpad is capable of launching all rockets right from the smallest SSLV to the largest LVM3. However, the first launchpad has served for more than 30 years, whereas the second launchpad has served for more than 20 years. Also Read | Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know The Third Launch Pad project is meant to enable the launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) of ISRO and also to support as a standby launch pad for the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota. This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions. Also Read | Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic The TLP will support the more capable semi-cryogenic engine variant of the LVM3 rocket and also the scaled-up version of India’s proposed NGLV rocket. The new launch pad will be built with maximum industry participation, fully utilising ISRO’s experience in establishing the earlier launch pads and maximally sharing the existing launch complex facilities. Also Read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The TLP project will boost the Indian Space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions such as regular missions to the proposed Indian space station and manned missions to the moon.

India to build 3rd rocket launchpad at Sriharikota at cost of $460mn

During the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 16) the Indian space agency succeeded in mechanically attaching or docking two satellites flying at velocities over 28,000 kilometres per hour, almost 470 kms above Earth. India became the fourth nation - and the fifth space agency when we factor in European Space Agency - to achieve such space docking.
Docking is an enabling technology crucial to transfer humans, cargo or fuel from one spacecraft to another. India's ambitions of returning samples from the moon (Chandrayaan-4) and building the country's own space station required mastery over docking technology. So far, only the US, Russia, Europe, and China have performed space docking, and India joins that elite list with the successful execution of ISRO's SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission.
Over the course of this week, the satellites were gradually brought closer to one another from a distance of over eight km, in preparation for docking. 
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Over the last two weeks, ISRO made two attempts at docking, but stopped short of the final process, coming as close as three metres on the attempt made on January 12. However, the process of bringing the satellites close to one another has helped in testing the sensors, cameras and software that enable the fully autonomous docking process.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5yv8c0g-p86j6p8y-6le3fkoz">
🌟 PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission Update 🌟 Visualize SpaDeX in Action! 🎞️ Animation Alert: Experience the marvel of in-space docking with this animation! 🌐 Click here for more information: <a href="https://t.co/jQEnGi3ocF">https://t.co/jQEnGi3ocF</a> <a href="https://t.co/djVUkqXWYS">pic.twitter.com/djVUkqXWYS</a>
&mdash; ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1872591278992396530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
<h2 class="p1">What is the objective of Space Docking?</h2>
The primary objective of the&nbsp;SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg and is fitted with cameras, sensors and thrusters that will enable precise docking.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/china-mulling-recreating-three-gorges-dam-project-in-space-8607027" rel="dofollow">China mulling re-creating &lsquo;Three Gorges Dam project&rsquo; in space. Here is how</a>
After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate (undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years. WION had earlier reported that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both crafts.&nbsp;
<h2 class="p1">Why is Space Docking so complicated?</h2>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/why-jeff-bezos-blue-origin-called-off-new-glenn-rocket-launch-8618749" rel="dofollow">'Few anomalies': Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin calls off&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;launch</a>
When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays.
When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/elon-musks-spacex-launches-two-private-lunar-landers-aboard-falcon-9-8623630" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk&rsquo;s SpaceX launches two private lunar landers aboard Falcon 9</a>
Initially, the ISRO satellites were over 10 km apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500 metres and so on.
WION had earlier reported that&nbsp;SpaDeX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around Earth. ISRO's twin SpaDeX satellites being of small size (and carrying commensurate fuel) also added to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler.
&nbsp;

Science, Tech, Trending:  ISRO's SpaDeX Mission Successful - The satellites were gradually brought closer to one another from a distance of over 8 kms, in preparation for docking. Over the last two weeks, ISRO made two attempts at docking but stopped short of the final process.

During the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 16) the Indian space agency succeeded in mechanically attaching or docking two satellites flying at velocities over 28,000 kilometres per hour, almost 470 kms above Earth. India became the fourth nation - and the fifth space agency when we factor in European Space Agency - to achieve such space docking. Docking is an enabling technology crucial to transfer humans, cargo or fuel from one spacecraft to another. India's ambitions of returning samples from the moon (Chandrayaan-4) and building the country's own space station required mastery over docking technology. So far, only the US, Russia, Europe, and China have performed space docking, and India joins that elite list with the successful execution of ISRO's SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission. Over the course of this week, the satellites were gradually brought closer to one another from a distance of over eight km, in preparation for docking. Also Read: Scientists uncover evidence of second core layer beneath Earth's surface Over the last two weeks, ISRO made two attempts at docking, but stopped short of the final process, coming as close as three metres on the attempt made on January 12. However, the process of bringing the satellites close to one another has helped in testing the sensors, cameras and software that enable the fully autonomous docking process. 🌟 PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission Update 🌟 Visualize SpaDeX in Action! 🎞️ Animation Alert: Experience the marvel of in-space docking with this animation! 🌐 Click here for more information: https://t.co/jQEnGi3ocF pic.twitter.com/djVUkqXWYS — ISRO (@isro) December 27, 2024 What is the objective of Space Docking? The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg and is fitted with cameras, sensors and thrusters that will enable precise docking. Also Read: China mulling re-creating ‘Three Gorges Dam project’ in space. Here is how After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate (undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years. WION had earlier reported that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both crafts. Why is Space Docking so complicated? Also Read: 'Few anomalies': Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin calls off rocket launch When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays. When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously. Also Read: Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches two private lunar landers aboard Falcon 9 Initially, the ISRO satellites were over 10 km apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500 metres and so on. WION had earlier reported that SpaDeX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around Earth. ISRO's twin SpaDeX satellites being of small size (and carrying commensurate fuel) also added to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler.

ISRO's SpaDeX Mission successful: India becomes 4th nation to accomplish space docking

In the morning hours of Wednesday, January 15 Indian Coast Guard rescued 54 persons (22 women, 20 children, 9 men, 3 infants) from a passenger vessel that was stranded mid-sea due to an engine failure, in the Lakshadweep archipelago, off India's West Coast.&nbsp;
The said passenger vessel had departed Kavaratti at 12:15AM on Tuesday, 14th January, &nbsp;for Suhelipar Island and was expected to reach by 9AM. With the boat not having arrived well after the expected time of arrival, the Lakshadweep Administration sent a distress alert to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters No. 12 (Lakshadweep), Kavaratti, on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;
Upon receiving this information, the Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it. It was ascertained that the vessel had suffered engine failure and was stranded mid-sea. Communication was successfully established with the stranded boat and the details were relayed to Indian Coast Guard ship, which was diverted to the boat's position at maximum speed to assess the situation and provide assistance.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-becoming-a-major-maritime-power-says-pm-modi-while-inaugurating-three-made-in-india-naval-combatants-8623479" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PM Modi inaugurates three &lsquo;Made in India&rsquo; Naval combatants: 'India is becoming a major maritime power'</a>
At approximately 4:30PM on Tuesday, ICG ship reached the adrift boat, located about four nautical miles off Suhelipar Island. The ship's boarding team assessed the situation and safely embarked all 54 passengers onboard for further transfer to Kavaratti Island. The passengers were reassured and were provided with emergency care. At around 9AM on 15thJanuary 2025, the passengers were safely handed over to the Lakshadweep Administration authorities at Kavaratti Island. &nbsp;
The ICG District Headquarters at Kavaratti emphasized to Lakshadweep Administration that Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea can be significantly more effective if boats adhere to safety protocols, primarily refraining from overloading beyond rated capacity and carriage of life saving equipment.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India News | The Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it.

In the morning hours of Wednesday, January 15 Indian Coast Guard rescued 54 persons (22 women, 20 children, 9 men, 3 infants) from a passenger vessel that was stranded mid-sea due to an engine failure, in the Lakshadweep archipelago, off India's West Coast. The said passenger vessel had departed Kavaratti at 12:15AM on Tuesday, 14th January, for Suhelipar Island and was expected to reach by 9AM. With the boat not having arrived well after the expected time of arrival, the Lakshadweep Administration sent a distress alert to the Indian Coast Guard Headquarters No. 12 (Lakshadweep), Kavaratti, on Tuesday afternoon. Upon receiving this information, the Indian Coast Guard launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission for the overdue vessel through the Remote Operating Station (ROS) at Kavaratti and located it. It was ascertained that the vessel had suffered engine failure and was stranded mid-sea. Communication was successfully established with the stranded boat and the details were relayed to Indian Coast Guard ship, which was diverted to the boat's position at maximum speed to assess the situation and provide assistance. Also Read: PM Modi inaugurates three ‘Made in India’ Naval combatants: 'India is becoming a major maritime power' At approximately 4:30PM on Tuesday, ICG ship reached the adrift boat, located about four nautical miles off Suhelipar Island. The ship's boarding team assessed the situation and safely embarked all 54 passengers onboard for further transfer to Kavaratti Island. The passengers were reassured and were provided with emergency care. At around 9AM on 15thJanuary 2025, the passengers were safely handed over to the Lakshadweep Administration authorities at Kavaratti Island. The ICG District Headquarters at Kavaratti emphasized to Lakshadweep Administration that Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea can be significantly more effective if boats adhere to safety protocols, primarily refraining from overloading beyond rated capacity and carriage of life saving equipment.

Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel

By 7 am, Sunday, January 12, ISRO's Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) twin satellites travelling at speeds of more than 28,000kmph, came within three meters of each other in a precisely controlled and coordinated manner in a trial docking attempt. India is working towards becoming the fifth nation after the US, Russia, Europe, and&nbsp; China, to perform space docking- a process that involves mechanically attaching two spacecrafts fully autonomously.
Space docking is an enabling technology that helps perform sophisticated missions to return lunar samples and facilitates space station building. ISRO referred to the 3-meter close-in as a "trial attempt" and that the spacecraft were later moved back to a safe distance. The docking process will be done after further data analysis, ISRO added, without specifying the date and time for docking.
ISRO's PSLV rocket launched the SpaDeX satellites on December 30th, placing them 470 km above the Earth. While the satellites remained at the same altitude, they gradually grew apart by a little more than 10 km. Then ISRO commenced the process of sequentially reducing the distance between the satellites. After one instance of the satellites travelling further away from each other, ISRO managed to bring them as close as 230 metres by evening on Saturday, January 11.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5t2xeve-l51ku247-ifhe7sz8">
SpaDeX Docking Update: SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other! 🛰️🛰️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPADEX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPADEX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://t.co/RICiEVP6qB">pic.twitter.com/RICiEVP6qB</a>
&mdash; ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1878242788351115462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
In the early hours of Sunday, the satellites began to approach each other for docking - 105meters, 15meters and then finally, as close as 3meters.&nbsp;
<h2>What is the objective of space docking?</h2>
The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg and is fitted with cameras, sensors and thrusters that will enable precise docking.&nbsp;
After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate (undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years.
ISRO Chairman Dr S. Somanath earlier told WION that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both.&nbsp;
<h2>Why is space docking so complicated?</h2>
When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays.
When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously.
Initially, the satellites were over 10 km apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500m and so on.
WION had earlier reported that SpaDeX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around the Earth. ISRO's twin SpaDeX satellites being of small size (and carrying commensurate fuel) also add to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler.

In the early hours of Sunday, the SpaDeX satellites began to approach each other for docking - 105 meters, 15 meters and then finally, as close as 3 meters. 

By 7 am, Sunday, January 12, ISRO's Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) twin satellites travelling at speeds of more than 28,000kmph, came within three meters of each other in a precisely controlled and coordinated manner in a trial docking attempt. India is working towards becoming the fifth nation after the US, Russia, Europe, and China, to perform space docking- a process that involves mechanically attaching two spacecrafts fully autonomously. Space docking is an enabling technology that helps perform sophisticated missions to return lunar samples and facilitates space station building. ISRO referred to the 3-meter close-in as a "trial attempt" and that the spacecraft were later moved back to a safe distance. The docking process will be done after further data analysis, ISRO added, without specifying the date and time for docking. ISRO's PSLV rocket launched the SpaDeX satellites on December 30th, placing them 470 km above the Earth. While the satellites remained at the same altitude, they gradually grew apart by a little more than 10 km. Then ISRO commenced the process of sequentially reducing the distance between the satellites. After one instance of the satellites travelling further away from each other, ISRO managed to bring them as close as 230 metres by evening on Saturday, January 11. SpaDeX Docking Update: SpaDeX satellites holding position at 15m, capturing stunning photos and videos of each other! 🛰️🛰️ #SPADEX #ISRO pic.twitter.com/RICiEVP6qB — ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2025 In the early hours of Sunday, the satellites began to approach each other for docking - 105meters, 15meters and then finally, as close as 3meters. What is the objective of space docking? The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg and is fitted with cameras, sensors and thrusters that will enable precise docking. After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate (undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years. ISRO Chairman Dr S. Somanath earlier told WION that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both. Why is space docking so complicated? When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two (the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays. When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously. Initially, the satellites were over 10 km apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500m and so on. WION had earlier reported that SpaDeX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around the Earth. ISRO's twin SpaDeX satellites being of small size (and carrying commensurate fuel) also add to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler.

ISRO SPADEX satellites came 3 metres close; final docking later

ISRO's twin SPADEX satellites are barely 230metres away from each other, which is the closest they have gotten since they were placed in orbit on December 30, 2024. This indicates significant progress, given that the satellites had drifted almost 6.5kms apart earlier this week, when they were supposed to get at close as 225meters.&nbsp;
As of 6pm, Saturday, January 11, ISRO has said that the satellites are in normal health and their sensors are being evaluated. Space docking of two satellites is an intricate, fully autonomous process involving multiple sensors and cameras.&nbsp;
<h2>Two Postponed Docking attempts this week</h2>
The first docking attempt planned for January 7 was postponed as ISRO wanted to perform a software test and on-ground simulation. &nbsp;
The docking was then pushed to Thursday, January 9. However, on Wednesday night as one of the twin satellites aimed to move closer from 500m to 225m, the distance between the satellites increased drastically. Early on Thursday, private firms Digantara and s2a systems tracked the satellites when they were almost 6.5 kms apart.&nbsp;
<h2>How is ISRO executing SPADEX ?</h2>
The primary objective of the SPADEX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg, and has been hurled into a circular orbit that is 470kms above the earth's surface.&nbsp;
At the time of ejection, the final stage of the PSLV rocket gave a small relative velocity between the Target and Chaser spacecraft at the time of separation. Simply put, the target satellite will be travelling slightly faster than the chaser. This incremental velocity will allow the Target spacecraft to build a distance of 10-20 km with the Chaser.
Gradually, the satellites will autonomously reduce the distance between themselves by adjusting their respective velocities. From 20kms, the inter-satellite distance would be lowered to of 5km, 1.5 km, 500m, 225m, 15m, and 3m, ultimately leading to the docking of the two spacecraft. After successful docking and unification, electrical power transfer between the two satellites will be demonstrated. Electrical power transfer is crucial for carrying out in-space robotics, control of the unified spacecraft etc.&nbsp;
After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate(undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years.
ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath had told WION that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both crafts.&nbsp;
<h2>Why is Space docking so complicated?</h2>
When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two(the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays.
When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously.
Initially the satellites were over 10kms apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500m and so on.&nbsp;
WION had earlier reported that SPADEX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around the earth. ISRO's twin SPADEX satellites being of small size(and carrying commensurate fuel) also add to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler.
As this is India's maiden docking mission, ISRO is predominantly relying upon the natural drift of the satellites to bring them closer, which is why it is a time-consuming process. It must be noted that SPADEX was launched on 30th December and docking was expected at least a week later. In contrast, large cargo-carrying or human-carrying spacecrafts dock with the International space station in eight hours after being launched into space. This is done by firing the on-board engines of the spacecraft and syncing up in close proximity with the space station, leading to docking.
&nbsp;

India  News | The primary objective of the SPADEX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target.

ISRO's twin SPADEX satellites are barely 230metres away from each other, which is the closest they have gotten since they were placed in orbit on December 30, 2024. This indicates significant progress, given that the satellites had drifted almost 6.5kms apart earlier this week, when they were supposed to get at close as 225meters. As of 6pm, Saturday, January 11, ISRO has said that the satellites are in normal health and their sensors are being evaluated. Space docking of two satellites is an intricate, fully autonomous process involving multiple sensors and cameras. Two Postponed Docking attempts this week The first docking attempt planned for January 7 was postponed as ISRO wanted to perform a software test and on-ground simulation. The docking was then pushed to Thursday, January 9. However, on Wednesday night as one of the twin satellites aimed to move closer from 500m to 225m, the distance between the satellites increased drastically. Early on Thursday, private firms Digantara and s2a systems tracked the satellites when they were almost 6.5 kms apart. How is ISRO executing SPADEX ? The primary objective of the SPADEX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft - SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target. Each satellite weighs 220kg, and has been hurled into a circular orbit that is 470kms above the earth's surface. At the time of ejection, the final stage of the PSLV rocket gave a small relative velocity between the Target and Chaser spacecraft at the time of separation. Simply put, the target satellite will be travelling slightly faster than the chaser. This incremental velocity will allow the Target spacecraft to build a distance of 10-20 km with the Chaser. Gradually, the satellites will autonomously reduce the distance between themselves by adjusting their respective velocities. From 20kms, the inter-satellite distance would be lowered to of 5km, 1.5 km, 500m, 225m, 15m, and 3m, ultimately leading to the docking of the two spacecraft. After successful docking and unification, electrical power transfer between the two satellites will be demonstrated. Electrical power transfer is crucial for carrying out in-space robotics, control of the unified spacecraft etc. After the primary mission of docking is accomplished, the two satellites will then separate(undock) and start operating as two different satellites, operating their respective payloads for the expected mission life of up to two years. ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath had told WION that the twin satellites could attempt more docking and undocking, depending on the mission requirement and the availability of fuel on both crafts. Why is Space docking so complicated? When a chaser spacecraft is approaching the target spacecraft, the relative velocity between the two(the difference in velocity between the two) and the distance between the two must be controlled very carefully. If the relative velocity is too high, the docking attempt can fail, causing damage or collisions. If it is too low, it may take too long to complete the approach, which could lead to fuel inefficiencies or mission delays. When the spacecraft dock, their relative velocity must be near-zero. This means that the two spacecraft must be moving at the same velocity and in the same direction at the time of docking to ensure a smooth mechanical connection without any impact forces. This requires careful coordination and manoeuvring, all done fully autonomously. Initially the satellites were over 10kms apart from each other. Gradually, the satellites began to autonomously reduce the distance between themselves. The inter-satellite distance had been lowered to 5 km, 1.5 km, 500m and so on. WION had earlier reported that SPADEX is ISRO's most complicated mission yet in orbit around the earth. ISRO's twin SPADEX satellites being of small size(and carrying commensurate fuel) also add to the complexity of the mission. It is widely regarded that docking larger satellites with larger quantities of fuel is relatively simpler. As this is India's maiden docking mission, ISRO is predominantly relying upon the natural drift of the satellites to bring them closer, which is why it is a time-consuming process. It must be noted that SPADEX was launched on 30th December and docking was expected at least a week later. In contrast, large cargo-carrying or human-carrying spacecrafts dock with the International space station in eight hours after being launched into space. This is done by firing the on-board engines of the spacecraft and syncing up in close proximity with the space station, leading to docking.

230m away from docking- ISRO Spadex satellites are at their closest so far

In a significant boost to India&rsquo;s electronics manufacturing sector, Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated a laptop assembly line in the Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), in Chennai city. The Syrma SGS facility will be assembling laptops for Taiwanese Brand Micro-Star International(MSI). This assembly line is said to have an initial annual production capacity of 1,00,000 laptops, scalable to one million units per year within the next 1-2 years, based on demand.
This initiative marks India&rsquo;s shift from being a notable player in mobile phone assembly sector to making strides in the laptop and IT hardware assembly sector. The new assembly line is a step towards achieving Production Linked Incentive &nbsp;2.0. PLI 2.0 provides financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing of IT hardware. The scheme aims to encourage the localization of components and sub-assemblies, and to attract large investments in the IT hardware value chain.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ins-surat-first-frontline-indian-warship-named-after-a-city-in-gujarat-8608920" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">INS Surat - First frontline Indian warship named after a city in Gujarat</a>
Facilities like the newly inaugurated Syrma SGS assembly line in Chennai showcase India&rsquo;s capability to produce world-class laptops that meet global standards, reducing dependency on imported laptops, and also positioning India as a global hub for IT hardware manufacturing, the Minister said. The facility will not only meet domestic demand but also strengthen India&rsquo;s role in the global IT supply chain.
This development underscores India&rsquo;s evolving manufacturing ecosystem, diversifying from mobile phones to IT hardware. It is expected to provide consumers with locally-assembled laptops from International brands, while boosting India&rsquo;s economic growth, creating jobs.
&nbsp;

India News | This initiative marks India’s shift from being a notable player in mobile phone assembly sector to making strides in the laptop and IT hardware assembly sector.

In a significant boost to India’s electronics manufacturing sector, Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated a laptop assembly line in the Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), in Chennai city. The Syrma SGS facility will be assembling laptops for Taiwanese Brand Micro-Star International(MSI). This assembly line is said to have an initial annual production capacity of 1,00,000 laptops, scalable to one million units per year within the next 1-2 years, based on demand. This initiative marks India’s shift from being a notable player in mobile phone assembly sector to making strides in the laptop and IT hardware assembly sector. The new assembly line is a step towards achieving Production Linked Incentive 2.0. PLI 2.0 provides financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing of IT hardware. The scheme aims to encourage the localization of components and sub-assemblies, and to attract large investments in the IT hardware value chain. Also Read: INS Surat - First frontline Indian warship named after a city in Gujarat Facilities like the newly inaugurated Syrma SGS assembly line in Chennai showcase India’s capability to produce world-class laptops that meet global standards, reducing dependency on imported laptops, and also positioning India as a global hub for IT hardware manufacturing, the Minister said. The facility will not only meet domestic demand but also strengthen India’s role in the global IT supply chain. This development underscores India’s evolving manufacturing ecosystem, diversifying from mobile phones to IT hardware. It is expected to provide consumers with locally-assembled laptops from International brands, while boosting India’s economic growth, creating jobs.

India: IT Minister inaugurates facility to assemble Taiwanese MSI laptops

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