India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. Over the years, ISRO has designed and executed a range of missions—from satellite navigation, Earth observation, interplanetary exploration, to solar studies—that have not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also contributed to global scientific collaboration. Its cost-effective approaches and mission diversity—from Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan to Aditya-L1 and the upcoming Gaganyaan—have become case studies in innovation.

For UPSC aspirants, ISROs journey is more than current affairs—it directly intersects with the syllabus of General Studies Paper 3 (Science & Technology), provides examples for GS Paper 2 (International Relations, Governance), and can enrich perspectives in the Essay Paper, Ethics, and even Optional subjects like Geography or PSIR. In this article, we will explore detailed insights about ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Mission Overview

As a Technology Demonstration (Docking) initiative, ISROs Space Docking Experiment - A contributes to ISRO’s broader programmatic roadmap.ISRO selected Low Earth Orbit as the functional environment for the Space Docking Experiment - A mission.

• Space Docking Experiment - A was launched aboard the PSLV-CA_C60.
• Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota (expected) served as the location for the mission’s liftoff.
• Among its key functions, Space Docking Experiment - A was intended to Demonstrate autonomous rendezvous and docking technology.
• Complementing its main task, Space Docking Experiment - A contributed to Develop technologies for in-orbit servicing, human spaceflight.
• The mission has reached the stage classified as Planned/Under Development.

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Mission

• Space Docking Experiment - A was launched on December_30_2024.

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ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Mission Technical Specifications

Two small chaser and target spacecraft defined the operational capabilities of SPADEX-A, supporting its deployment into Low Earth Orbit.The choice of Low Earth Orbit aligned with the mission’s overall strategy for scientific observation and technical validation.

• The spacecraft for Space Docking Experiment - A carried scientific payloads such as Docking system, navigation sensors, supporting its role as a Technology Demonstration (Docking) mission.
• Autonomous navigation, docking mechanisms, robotic arms (potential) were implemented as part of the engineering design of Space Docking Experiment - A.

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Space Docking Experiment - A Launch Information

• On December_30_2024, Space Docking Experiment - A was sent into its designated orbit.
• Space Docking Experiment - A lifted off using the PSLV-CA_C60.
• The selected launch site for the operation was Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota (expected).

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

According to official information, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) were associated with the mission.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Mission

Among its contributions, Space Docking Experiment - A delivered information on Engineering data on docking performance.

• Capability building for future advanced missions reflects the broader value of Space Docking Experiment - A beyond technical results.
• Future satellite servicing, assembly of large space structures are among the key civilian benefits derived from SPADEX-A.
• ISRO positioned Space Docking Experiment - A to contribute toward strategic outcomes like Critical for human spaceflight, space station, satellite longevity.
• The success and findings of Space Docking Experiment - A are likely to inform and guide the development of subsequent missions like SPADEX-B, further docking experiments, operational servicing missions as part of ISRO’s continued technological progression.

ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

Managing Complex autonomous operations in space was part of the broader mission operations strategy.
Ground simulations, component level testing formed a part of the missions safety and quality assurance process.

UPSC Relevance of ISRO Space Docking Experiment - A Space Mission

• Candidates should be able to identify which ISRO mission belongs to which application area, such as communication, meteorology, navigation, or planetary exploration.
• Missions like RISAT, Cartosat, and Oceansat illustrate how space technology supports internal security, agriculture, coastal monitoring, and environmental protection, all of which are topics in General Studies papers.
• Missions like Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission), which combined low-cost execution with high-impact outcomes, reflect the ethical dimensions of responsible innovation.
• Missions like Cartosat or Resourcesat allow candidates to bring satellite-based data into answers dealing with urban planning, hydrology, and land-use studies.

Past UPSC Mains PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Discuss the role of the private sector in the growth of the space industry in India. How has the governments policy of 2023 affected it? (2023, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q2. What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (2022 & 2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q3. Space has been the next big frontier for mankind after sea and land. In this context, discuss Indias policy and preparedness for space wars. (2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q4. Discuss the utility of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) for India. (2016, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q5. What do you understand by Standard Positioning Systems and Precision Positioning Systems in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Past UPSC Prelims PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1 [2025]: GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?

I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) I, II and III
(b) II and III only
(c) I only
(d) I and II only

Correct Answer: (d) I and II only

Explanation: Statements I and II correctly describe the core purpose and benefit of the GAGAN system. (I) GAGAN is designed to augment GPS signals by correcting for errors, which provides much greater accuracy and guarantees the integrity (reliability) of the positioning information. (II) This enhanced accuracy and reliability directly enables more precise aircraft routing and landing procedures, thus improving the uniformity and quality of air traffic management.

Q2 [2022]: If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Answer: The correct answer is (c).

Explanation: A major solar storm can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellite orbits, polar radio communication, and cause auroras, but cannot trigger tsunamis or forest fires.

Q3 [2020]: The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New horizons
(c) Lisa Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: The correct answer is (d) Evolved LISA.

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a planned space-based gravitational wave observatory by ESA and NASA, using three spacecraft in a triangular formation with laser beams to detect cosmic gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Mangalyaan is the informal name of Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), launched by ISRO on 5 November 2013 and India is the only nation to date to have succeeded on its maiden attempt.

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UPSC Practice Questions on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Which space technology startup is set to demonstrate microsatellite subsystems during ISRO's PSLV-C58 XPoSat Mission?
1. Bellatrix Aerospace
2. TM2Space
3. Dhruva Space
4. Skyroot Aerospace
Answer: Dhruva Space
Solution: Dhruva Space, a space technology startup headquartered in Hyderabad, will display its microsatellite subsystems during the upcoming ISRO's PSLV-C58 XPoSat Mission. The startup will showcase its LEAPTD (Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Technologies Technology Demonstrator) onboard the mission. The PSLV-C58 XPoSat Mission is an initiative of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), marking its first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite mission. The planned launch is scheduled for January 1, 2024, from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This collaboration with ISRO provides a valuable opportunity for Dhruva Space to highlight and potentially expand its operations in microsatellite technology. Other companies such as Bellatrix Aerospace and TM2Space will also be launching their payloads in the same mission, highlighting the increasing collaboration between ISRO and space tech startups in India.

Q2. Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) unveiled details of its first indigenous human space mission dubbed as Gaganyaan to be launched in ____________.
1. 2021
2. 2022
3. 2024
4. 2025
Answer: 2024
Solution: As announced by the Prime Minister, India’s first Indian human spaceflight mission would be launched by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) by 2024.

Q3. Proba - 3 Mission, which will be launched aboard ISRO's PSLV, is associated with which space agency?
1. ESA European Space Agency
2. CNSA The China National Space Administration
3. NASA The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
4. JAXA Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
Answer: ESA European Space Agency
Solution: The Proba-3 Mission is associated with the European Space Agency (ESA). The mission is named Proba-3 where Proba stands for Project for OnBoard Autonomy. The mission is scheduled to be launched aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) operated by ISRO. The primary objective of the Proba-3 mission is to study the Sun's corona, its outer atmosphere, by creating an artificial solar eclipse. It involves two spacecraft flying in formation to maintain a specific configuration relative to each other.

Q4. Which ISRO mission team was honored with the 2024 John L Jack Swigert Jr. award for space exploration by the Space Foundation?
1. Mars Orbiter Mission
2. Chandrayaan-3 Mission
3. Aaditya L-1 Mission
4. Gaganyaan Mission
Answer: Chandrayaan-3 Mission
Solution: ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission team has been honored with the 2024 John L Jack Swigert Jr. Award for space exploration by the Space Foundation in the US. The award ceremony took place during the Space Symposium’s annual opening ceremony in Colorado on April 8, with DC Manjunath, Consul General of India in Houston, accepting the award on behalf of ISRO’s Chandrayaan team. Heather Pringle, CEO of the Space Foundation, commended India’s leadership in space and praised the technical and engineering excellence demonstrated by the Chandrayaan-3 mission.

Q5. Consider the following statements about XPosat:
1. It is the first dedicated satellite from ISRO to carry out research in space-based polarisation measurements of X-ray emission from celestial sources.
2. It is a NASA mission.
3. XPoSat comprises two payloads POLIX and XSPECT.
How many of the statements are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None
Answer: Only two
Solution: X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XpoSat) is the first dedicated satellite from ISRO to carry out research in space-based polarisation measurements of X-ray emission from celestial sources. Hence statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is incorrect. It is designed to study X-ray polarization in the medium X-ray band, offering insights into celestial sources' radiation mechanisms and geometry. The satellite carries two main payloads, POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) and XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing). Hence statement 3 is correct. POLIX will observe about 40 bright astronomical sources, while XSPECT will study the electromagnetic spectrum generated by different matter.

Q6. Where did ISRO launch India's first analog space mission to simulate interplanetary habitat conditions?
1. Bengaluru, Karnataka
2. Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
3. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
4. Leh, Ladakh
Answer: Leh, Ladakh
Solution: ISRO launched India's first analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh, in collaboration with the Human Spaceflight Centre, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Delhi, and supported by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. The mission aims to simulate conditions similar to those on Mars and the Moon by replicating the extreme challenges astronauts would encounter in extraterrestrial environments. Ladakh's harsh climate, with temperatures ranging from 3 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius in summer and dropping to -20 degrees Celsius to -35 degrees Celsius in winter, along with heavy snowfall, makes it an ideal analog location. Analog missions are field tests conducted in Earth locations resembling extreme space environments, which help in testing technologies before deploying them in space.

Q7. What is the primary aim of the European Space Agency's Proba-3 mission, scheduled for launch on December 4, 2024, using ISRO's PSLV-XL rocket?
1. To explore Mars using advanced rover technology
2. To study the Sun's corona by creating an artificial eclipse
3. To investigate exoplanets using high-precision telescopes
4. To monitor Earth's climate through satellite imaging
Answer: To study the Sun's corona by creating an artificial eclipse
Solution: Proba-3 mission, a European Space Agency (ESA) project, aims to study the Sun's corona by creating an artificial eclipse in space. The mission will use two small satellites flying in precise formation to act as a single 144-meter-long solar coronagraph. The Coronagraph spacecraft was successfully fueled with hydrazine at ISRO's Satish Dhawan Space Centre, following stringent safety protocols. The launch is scheduled for December 4, 2024, aboard ISRO’s PSLV-XL rocket. Continuous observation of the Sun’s corona will provide critical data on solar flares and coronal mass ejections, improving understanding of space weather.

Q8. What is the primary aim of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 mission, which will be launched by ISRO via PSLV-C59?
1. To study Earth's atmospheric changes
2. To explore the Sun's corona
3. To monitor asteroids near Earth
4. To test satellite communication technologies
Answer: To explore the Sun's corona
Solution: ISRO’s PSLV-C59 will launch the Proba-3 mission for the European Space Agency (ESA) on December 4, 2024, at 4:08 PM IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota. Proba-3 features two satellites operating as a unified structure to study the Sun’s corona, utilizing precision formation flying technology with a 150-meter separation. The satellites will form a solar coronagraph to capture detailed corona views, aiming to improve understanding of solar activity and space weather.

Q9. Consider the following statements about the indigenous Green propulsion system that was successfully demonstrated in space on ISRO's PSLV-C58 mission:
I. It was developed by Bellatrix Aerospace Private Limited under the Technology Development Fund scheme of DRDO.
II. Green propulsion system is an innovative technology which is a non-toxic and environmentally-friendly propulsion system for low orbit space.
III. Green propulsion system is ideal for space missions with high thrust requirement.
Which among the above statements are correct?
1. I and II only
2. II and III only
3. I and III only
4. All the above
Answer: All the above
Solution: The indigenous Green propulsion system was successfully demonstrated in space on ISRO's PSLV-C58 mission. It was developed by Bellatrix Aerospace Private Limited under the Technology Development Fund scheme of DRDO. The Green propulsion system is an innovative technology that is non-toxic and environmentally friendly for low orbit space missions. The Green propulsion system is ideal for space missions with high thrust requirements.