Unification of Space Assembly Operations for New Space Exploration Vision

Paper number

IAC-06-D3.1.06

Author

Mr. Eduardo Urgoiti, SENER Ingeneria y Sistemas, S.A., Spain

Coauthor

Mr. Eduard M. Belikov, SENER Ingeneria y Sistemas, S.A., Spain

Year

2006

Abstract

Docking and Berthing systems is a key element of human rated space vehicles. The human infrastructure for the new coming exploration missions will require the definition of the development or procurement approach for the next generation docking and berthing systems. This approach should take into account the lessons learned in the ISS implementation in which the use of different and incompatible docking or berthing ports lead to increased costs and operational constraints.

Next generation docking berthing systems calls for a requirements redefinition of the docking and berthing systems for the new missions and the implementation of existing new technologies. They should replace the existing elements which in some cases have designs with more than 20 years.

This situation of new coming missions and existing old designs give the opportunity for a definition and set down of a standard for docking or berthing ports for human rated vehicles. A mating port standard would be of benefit not only as cost and operational effective solution but as a settlement of international standards for specific human operations. A unified mating port standard would be a long lasting tool for the effectiveness and armonization of human space activities in the future. 

This paper is focused in the identification of existing candidates for such unification and the definition of the starting point, next steps and the difficulties for the implementation of this proposal: The unification of mating ports will require the willingness of all countries active in Human Space activities and an international partnership for the development and definition of such interfaces. 

Abstract document

IAC-06-D3.1.06.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-D3.1.06.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.