Docking Port Seal
Static Pressure Seal for Docked Module Interface
A docking port seal is a static pressure barrier that maintains atmospheric pressure across the interface between connected lunar modules. Typically configured as a double silicone O-ring system compressed under hard-dock latch preload, the assembly includes an inter-seal leak check and an Inconel metal C-seal backup for dormant storage. On the lunar surface, these interfaces endure severe external temperature cycling compared to interior joints, demanding seal materials rated for over 100 years of operation. Furthermore, unused ports require protective covers to shield sealing surfaces from lunar dust, ensuring the seals remain functional when eventually needed for module expansion.
Pressure seal at docking interface maintaining atmosphere between connected modules
Purpose
Pressure seal at docking interface maintaining atmosphere between connected modules
Context
Child of L2-STR-DOCK
Principles
- ▸Double O-ring seal with inter-seal leak check provides verified sealing
- ▸Metal face seal backup for long-term dormant storage of unused ports
- ▸Seal compression maintained by hard-dock latch preload
- ▸Seal material rated for >100 years at operating temperature range
Typical implementations
- ▸ISS CBM seal design (two silicone O-rings)
- ▸NDS docking seal system
- ▸Submarine hull penetration seal technology
Lunar considerations
- ▸Unused ports sealed and protected from dust - seal must function when eventually needed
- ▸Temperature cycling at external docking ports more severe than interior joints
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Pressure seal at docking interface maintaining atmosphere between connected modules |
Physical
| materials | Silicone O-rings, Metal Inconel C-seal backup, Seal protector covers |
Interfaces
Provides
- Pressure sealing at docked interface
Requires
- Replacement seal materials
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Docking Port Seal" (L3-STR-DOCK-SEAL). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L3-STR-DOCK-SEAL
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.