HOUSTON - Boeing will begin manufacturing a new docking system for the International Space Station (ISS), having recently completed the critical design review for the NASA Docking System Block-1 (NDSB-1). In compliance with the International Docking System standard, NDSB-1 will be compatible with any spacecraft.
The docking system includes a new design that will enable current and future spacecraft to latch onto the ISS at one of two International Docking Adapters, also built by the Boeing team. The system will also include a tunnel for crew and cargo to move between the two vehicles.
The NDSB-1 will attach to a newly designed port on the ISS called the International Docking Adaptor, or IDA. Once on orbit, the docking system will give the crew the capability to remain docked at the ISS for up to seven months.
Boeing continues to study future upgrades to the NDSB-1 system for opportunities to enhance other missions, including deep space rendezvous with larger Space Launch System-sized vehicles.
Space station partners are shifting their focus from building to operating the ISS. Although originally the U.S. only planned to fund ISS operations through 2015, ISS partner nations have decided to extend the station's life through 2020. In order to maintain operations supplies and crew need to be delivered ot the space station and used equipment needs to be taken away. Building docking systems to an international standard will improve the ability of both governments and private contractors to conduct operations at the space station.
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