Kumar Bahukhandi
The Dragon capsule carrying Shubhanshu has been connected to the space station.-Photo Credit-ISRO
The SpaceX Dragon capsule has finally docked with the space station. It docked 20 minutes ahead of schedule. This process was done with laser sensors, cameras and automated systems. Shubhanshu’s monitoring will be important.
Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is heading towards the International Space Station (ISS) in the SpaceX Dragon capsule under the Axiom-4 mission. Now the Dragon capsule will dock 40-45 minutes earlier than previously scheduled. The Dragon capsule is about 200-400 meters away from the ISS. It has entered the close approach zone.
This spacecraft is orbiting the Earth at an altitude of 418 km at a speed of 28,000 km/h. Since launch, it has completed a journey of about 26 hours and is now in the final stage. For this, the spacecraft has done several orbital maneuvers so that it can align with the orbit of the ISS.
Docking process of Dragon capsule
The docking of the Dragon capsule with the ISS is an automatic process, but Shubhanshu and commander Peggy Whitson will monitor it. This process is designed for accuracy and safety. It can be understood in four main stages…
Rendezvous: The Dragon capsule adjusts its speed and direction with engine firing 90 seconds after launch. By 2:33 pm IST, the spacecraft started from 400 meters down and 7 km behind and is now 200 meters away. SpaceX and NASA ground controllers check the spacecraft’s systems.
Close Approach: At a distance of 200 meters, Dragon begins direct communication with the ISS. This stage can remain on a safe path for up to 6 hours so that there is no risk.
Final Approach: At a distance of 20 meters, Dragon uses laser sensors, cameras and GPS to precisely align itself with the docking port of the ISS’s Harmony module. It moves at a speed of a few centimeters per second, which is an extremely slow and controlled speed. Shubhanshu will monitor the spacecraft’s speed, orbit and systems (such as avionics and propulsion) during this time.
Soft and Hard Capture
Soft capture: Magnetic grippers pull the spacecraft towards the docking port.
Hard capture: Mechanical latches and hooks secure the spacecraft. A pressure-resistant seal is created.
This will be followed by a 1-2 hour check, which will confirm the stability of air leaks and pressure. After this the crew will enter the ISS
