Thu, Aug 28, 2014
Will Be Compatible With Any Spacecraft, Company Says
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 space craft.
“This new docking system is a key stepping stone as we look to the future of deep space exploration,” said John Shannon, Boeing International Space Station program manager. “With this milestone, our team remains on schedule to support vehicle dockings for NASA beginning in 2016.”
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.
“Although the International Space Station has long been complete, we continually improve and upgrade it to support current and future NASA missions, enabling ground-breaking scientific research,” said Shannon.
(Image provided by Boeing)
More News
Chaff Thin, narrow metallic reflectors of various lengths and frequency responses, used to reflect radar energy. These reflectors, when dropped from aircraft and allowed to drift d>[...]
“Today, XB-1 took flight in the same hallowed airspace where the Bell X-1 first broke the sound barrier in 1947. I’ve been looking forward to this flight since founding>[...]
“Teaming up with the EAA and Berlin Express for this event in Cincinnati will give warbird fans a unique opportunity to see the aircraft that helped defend freedom and gave t>[...]
Hazardous Weather Information Summary of significant meteorological information (SIGMET/WS), convective significant meteorological information (convective SIGMET/WST), urgent pilot>[...]
Aero Linx: The Nebraska Aeronautics Commission The Nebraska Aeronautics Commission was created by the 1935 Legislature to oversee the development of aviation in the state. The Comm>[...]