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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 17/01/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (17-01-2025).

Q. Discuss the significance of ISRO’s success in space docking technology through the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). Highlight its implications for India’s space program and the challenges in scaling such advancements.

Model Answer

Introduction
On January 16, 2025, ISRO achieved a significant milestone by successfully executing the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). This positions India as the fourth country globally to master space docking technology after the USA, Russia, and China. This breakthrough marks a leap toward establishing India’s own space station and advancing interplanetary missions.

Significance of Space Docking Technology

Facilitating Future Space Missions:
- Enables the assembly and maintenance of modular space stations like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
- Crucial for long-duration lunar and Mars missions requiring multiple launches for supplies and equipment.
Strategic Advantages:
- Enhances India’s stature as a global space power.
- Strengthens defense and surveillance capabilities through advanced satellite technologies.
Scientific Contributions:
- Enables in-orbit experiments in microgravity conditions.
- Opens avenues for international collaborations in space research.
Economic and Technological Impact:
- Showcases cost-effective engineering capabilities, boosting the global competitiveness of Indian space technology.
- Encourages innovation in satellite manufacturing and docking systems, spurring private sector growth.

Challenges in Scaling Space Docking Technology

Technological Complexity:
- Requires high precision in satellite synchronization, orbital mechanics, and control systems.
- Vulnerability to failures in automated systems during docking operations.
Resource Allocation:
- Sustained funding needed for R&D, infrastructure development, and human resource training.
- Competition with other national priorities in space and defense sectors.
International Competition and Collaboration:
- Navigating geopolitical challenges and maintaining leadership amidst the space race with major powers like the USA, China, and Russia.
- Balancing collaboration with self-reliance to avoid dependency on foreign technologies.

Implications for India’s Space Program

Pathway to Self-Reliance:
- Reduces dependency on foreign partners for docking and interplanetary logistics.
- Accelerates India’s space station project and exploration missions.
Boosting Private Sector Participation:
- Encourages startups and private companies to develop ancillary technologies under the SpaceCom Policy 2024.
Global Collaborations:
- Positions India as a key partner for space exploration initiatives with other nations.
Strengthening Act East and Global Outreach:
- Leverages space diplomacy to forge ties with ASEAN nations and emerging space-faring countries.

Way Forward

Capacity Building:
- Invest in skill development and training for scientists and engineers.
- Foster partnerships with global space agencies for knowledge sharing.
Infrastructure Development:
- Expand satellite launch facilities and create modular spacecraft assembly centers.
- Develop robust testing mechanisms for space docking operations.
Policy and Regulatory Support:
- Formulate clear guidelines for private sector participation in docking-related technologies.
- Encourage innovation through incentives and research grants.
Sustainability Focus:
- Ensure space debris management to avoid collisions during docking.
- Promote reusable spacecraft technologies.

Conclusion
The success of SpaDeX underscores ISRO’s potential to lead the global space race through indigenous innovations. By overcoming technological and financial challenges, India can establish itself as a leader in space exploration. This milestone not only accelerates projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station but also inspires confidence in India’s long-term vision of interplanetary missions, marking a new era in its space journey.

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