Docking in Space Missions

Docking is a vital technology for assembling spacefaring components into larger modules in space, enabling the launch of spacecraft heavier than the capacity of the heaviest rockets. It serves as a gateway for advanced interplanetary missions, exemplified by missions like the Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return mission.

Significance and Applications of Docking

• Interplanetary Missions: Docking facilitates the assembly of modules for missions that exceed individual rocket capabilities.
• Long-Duration Spaceflight: Docking technology is crucial for long-term missions, such as those to Mars or space mining operations.
• Cost Considerations: The need to reduce costs for extended missions increases the appeal of docking for satellite servicing and orbital resupply.

ISRO's Initiatives

• SpaDeX Satellites: ISRO equipped these satellites with ample fuel to conduct multiple docking attempts and collected continuous data.
• Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): ISRO plans to launch this space station later in the decade.

Challenges and Expectations

• Coherent Vision: It is crucial for ISRO to articulate the expected utility of BAS to align with the broader Indian space programme and international standards.
• Leadership: With V. Narayanan as the new chairman, ISRO is entering a new operational phase and needs to address these challenges effectively.

Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Launch

Blue Origin launched its new massive rocket, New Glenn, on its first test flight on January 16, 2025. The rocket successfully sent a prototype satellite into orbit, marking a milestone in private space exploration.

Key Highlights

• Launch Details:
  • New Glenn was launched from the historic launch pad in Florida, previously used for NASA's Mariner and Pioneer missions.
  • The rocket stands 320 feet (98 meters) tall and is equipped with seven main engines.
• Achievements:
  • Successfully reached orbit 13 minutes after launch.
  • Carried an experimental platform for hosting or deploying satellites.
• Operational Goals:
  • The test satellite was expected to remain in orbit for six hours.
  • First-stage booster retrieval attempt failed, but the primary goal was achieving orbit.

Blue Origin's Vision and Infrastructure

• Future Plans:
  • Plans for six to eight New Glenn flights this year, with the next scheduled in spring.
  • Aims to lower the cost of space access through industry collaboration.
• Infrastructure and Investment:
  • Over $1 billion invested in launching site Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
  • Launch site is strategically located near NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Comparative Context and Competition

• Competitive Landscape:
  • New Glenn is among other new rockets like United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan, Europe’s Ariane 6, and NASA's Space Launch System (SLS).
  • SpaceX's Starship, the largest at 400 feet, is expected to make additional test flights.
• Cooperation and Competition:
  • Jeff Bezos emphasizes collaboration over competition with SpaceX.
  • NASA has planned to use different companies for lunar missions under the Artemis program.

Challenges and Adjustments

• Delays and Adjustments:
  • Launch was delayed due to ice buildup in critical plumbing.
  • NASA's Mars mission involving New Glenn was postponed.
• Future Missions:
  • Planned Mars mission with twin spacecraft named Escapade, focused on studying the Martian atmosphere.

Overall, Blue Origin's New Glenn launch signifies a significant leap in private space travel, setting the stage for future missions and collaboration in the space industry.

Union Cabinet Approves Third Launchpad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light for the establishment of a third launchpad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Key Details of the Project

• Location and Cost: The new launchpad will be constructed at the SDSC in Sriharikota, with a development budget of ₹3,984.86 crore.
• Purpose: It is intended to support Next-Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) and critical future missions, including the Ganganyaan–human spaceflight programme.
• Role: The third launchpad will also serve as a standby for the second launchpad at Sriharikota, enhancing operational flexibility.

Infrastructure and Design

• The infrastructure will be designed to be universal and adaptable, accommodating both the NGLV and LVM3 vehicles with a semicryogenic stage.
• There will be a strong emphasis on industry participation, leveraging ISRO’s experience from previous launchpad projects.
• The project is targeted for completion within four years.

Key Components

• Systems: The TLP will include jet detector systems, launch towers, and lightning suppression systems.
• Facilities: Propellant storage and servicing facilities for liquid methane and cryogenic fuels will be integrated.
• Support: Advanced range systems, instrumentation, and electronic support facilities will be part of the setup.

Union Cabinet's Spectrum Refarming Approval

The Union cabinet has approved the Department of Telecommunications' (DoT) plan to refarm approximately 1100 MHz of spectrum, potentially worth ₹5 lakh crore, for future auctions to support 5G and 6G telecom services.

Key Details of the Spectrum Refarming

• The refarming includes spectrum from 10 bands, ranging from 470 MHz to 6 GHz.
• Currently, these bands are utilized by ministries like space, defense, information and broadcasting, railways, and housing and urban affairs.
• The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will suggest the spectrum pricing.

Importance and Potential of the Spectrum Refarming

• The mid-band spectrum (1000 MHz to 6000 MHz) is crucial for 4G and 5G services.
• Officials estimate the spectrum's value based on previous auction bids to be around ₹5 lakh crore.
• The telecom industry requires about 2,000 MHz in the mid-band range in the upcoming years, while currently, only 400 MHz is available.

Industry Perspective and Future Prospects

• The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) emphasizes the potential of the available mid-band spectrum (5925-7125 MHz) for mobile telecommunications.
• The industry seeks delicensing of the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi services.
• The DoT acknowledges the need for more airwaves in mid-band and premium lower bands to upgrade 5G and introduce 6G by 2030.