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Karnataka: A Hub of Space Innovation
1.RVSat-1 by RV College of Engineering
Bengaluru’s RV College of Engineering developed RVSat-1, a payload designed to study the growth of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, a gut bacterium, in space. This research aims to improve astronaut health, develop advanced antibiotics and create recycling systems for long-duration space missions.
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Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt. Ltd created RUDRA 1.0, an efficient and eco-friendly green propulsion system. This advanced propulsion technology sets a benchmark for sustainable space missions.
3. BGS ARPIT by SJCIT
The SJC Institute of Technology (SJCIT), Chickballapur, has played a pivotal role in India’s Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) with its groundbreaking payload, BGS ARPIT. Managed by the Sri Adichunchanagiri Shikshana Trust (R.), the institution operates under the blessings of Jagadguru Sri Sri Sri Dr Balagangadharanatha Maha Swamiji and the guidance of Jagadguru Sri Sri Sri Dr Nirmalanandanatha Maha Swamiji.
The BGS ARPIT payload is a state-of-the-art transmitter capable of sending audio, text and image messages from space to Earth using FM signals and the VHF band. This innovation enhances global amateur radio services and exemplifies SJCIT’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space communication.
SpaDEx: Major Step in Space Ambitions
Scheduled for launch on December 30, 2024, using the PSLV-C60, SpaDEx is poised to demonstrate India’s ability to dock two spacecraft in orbit. This capability is critical for such future missions as Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, India’s proposed space station.
The mission will deploy two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), into a 470-kilometre low-Earth orbit (LEO). These satellites will perform precise orbital manoeuvres to dock, demonstrating a complex, yet essential, technology for future interplanetary missions and long-duration human spaceflights.
Docking Science: Precision, Innovation
The docking process involves precise orbital alignment and movement. After launch, the satellites will separate by a calculated speed difference, creating a distance of 10-20 kilometres within a day. The Target satellite’s propulsion system will stabilize this distance, initiating the ‘far rendezvous’ phase.
The Chaser satellite will then approach the Target in a step-by-step sequence, gradually closing the distance from 5 kilometres to 3 metres. Despite travelling at 28,800 kilometres per hour, advanced thrusters and sensors will reduce their relative speed to 10 millimetres per second, ensuring collision-free docking.
Once docked, the satellites will perform tests, including power transfer and unified control, before separating to continue independent research tasks. Their onboard instruments, such as a high-resolution camera, a multi-spectral imaging device and a radiation monitor, will gather valuable data on natural resources, vegetation and space radiation.
Beyond Docking: The POEM-4 Payloads
The PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-4 (POEM-4), part of the PSLV-C60 mission, will carry 24 small payloads. POEM-4 is a kind of platform to carry out experiments on microgravity up to three months.
Of these 24 payloads, 14 are developed by ISRO teams, while 10 come from universities and start-ups, showcasing India’s collaborative approach to space exploration. These payloads include scientific experiments, technology demonstrations and innovative applications, further solidifying India’s reputation as a leader in space technology.
Besides RV College of Engineering’s RVSat-1 payload and Bellatrix Aerospace’s RUDRA 1.0, the SJCIT’s BGS ARPIT is part of the above 10 payloads, which brings into focus the rising interest of India’s students’ and teachers’ fraternity in space explorations.
India’s Global Leadership in Space Tech
With SpaDEx, India joins an exclusive group of nations—Russia, the US and China—that have mastered docking technology. Unlike these countries, which closely guard their methods, India’s collaborative approach encourages innovation and knowledge-sharing.
Conclusion
The SpaDEx mission is a testament to India’s growing expertise in space exploration. Contributions from Karnataka-based institutions, the SJCIT, RV College of Engineering and Bellatrix Aerospace, highlight the state’s vital role in pushing the boundaries of technology.
By mastering orbital alignment and docking, India is not only advancing its space capabilities, but also paving the way for such ambitious projects as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and interplanetary missions. As the countdown begins, SpaDEx stands as a shining example of innovation, collaboration and determination in India’s space journey.
By Girish Linganna, Space Analyst
(The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)