Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Message:

"This achievement is a stepping stone toward India's space station and interplanetary exploration. My congratulations to ISRO for yet another landmark success!"

ISRO’s Spectacular Success with SPADEX Mission
India Showcases Advanced Space Technology Once Again
Sriharikota: ISRO has once again demonstrated unparalleled excellence with the successful launch of the SPADEX mission (Space Docking Experiment).
•    The PSLV-C58 rocket carried two spacecraft designed to demonstrate autonomous docking and detaching capabilities in orbit.
•    This technology is essential for future human spaceflights and deep-space missions.

Significance of the SPADEX Mission
•    Enables satellite docking in space, which is essential for:
o    Space station construction
o    Lunar missions requiring dockable spacecraft
o    Refueling and repairing satellites in orbit
•    The mission involved two small experimental satellites performing precision maneuvers to dock in microgravity.
This success strengthens India’s position as a key space power, making it one of the very few nations capable of space-based docking operations.

ISRO Plans Heavy Satellite Launches from India
Next-Generation Rocket in Development for 2032
ISRO has begun work on a new-generation launch vehicle (NGLV) designed for launching heavy satellites exceeding 4,000 kg.
•    The new rocket will be ready by 2032, reducing India's dependence on foreign launch providers.
•    The budget for the project is ₹8,240 crore, and it aims to compete with global space agencies like NASA and SpaceX.
Why This is Important for India
•    Demand for heavier communication, defense, and scientific satellites is increasing.
•    India currently depends on international launch services for very large satellites, which this new vehicle will eliminate.
•    New commercial opportunities for ISRO in the space industry.

A Step Towards Complete Space Self-Reliance
India previously had to rely on the US for launching GSAT-2, a 4,700 kg satellite.
•    This new project will allow indigenous heavy-lift launches, boosting India's space economy and strategic autonomy.