L2-STR-DOCK
ESSENTIAL
STRUCTURAL
Level 2 · hardware
Module Docking and Expansion Ports
Module Docking and Expansion Port System
Standardized berthing mechanisms for future module attachment
Purpose
Enable future expansion of the Ark by adding new pressurized modules
Context
Component of L1-STR within the Lunar Ark system
Principles
- ▸Standardized docking interfaces enable modular expansion of Ark structure
- ▸Soft-capture then hard-dock sequence prevents impact damage during mating
- ▸Utility connections (power, data, fluid) integrate automatically upon docking
- ▸Pressure seals at dock interface must maintain integrity for 100 years after mating
Typical implementations
- ▸NASA Docking System (NDS/IDSS) for ISS crew vehicles
- ▸ISS Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) for cargo module attachment
- ▸European Berthing Mechanism for ISS Columbus
- ▸Chinese space station docking mechanism
Lunar considerations
- ▸Docking ports enable future expansion modules to be added to Ark
- ▸Unused ports must be sealed and protected from dust and thermal cycling
- ▸Robotic berthing may be needed if future modules arrive autonomously
- ▸Utility connections must accommodate different potential future module requirements
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Enable future expansion of the Ark by adding new pressurized modules |
Operational
| thermal range c | -173, 127 |
| lifetime years | 100 |
Interfaces
Provides
- Modular expansion capability for future Ark growth
Requires
- Pressure vessel integration at docking port locations
Decomposes into
L3-STR-DOCK-MECH
Docking Mechanism
Mechanical docking mechanism enabling attachment of expansion modules
L3-STR-DOCK-SEAL
Docking Port Seal
Pressure seal at docking interface maintaining atmosphere between connected modules
L3-STR-DOCK-UTIL
Docking Utility Connections
Utility connections automatically mating when modules are docked for power, data, and fluid transfer
L3-STR-DOCK-GUIDE
Docking Alignment System
Alignment system guiding approaching modules for successful soft-capture
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Module Docking and Expansion Ports" (L2-STR-DOCK). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L2-STR-DOCK
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.