Docking Utility Connections
Power, Data, and Fluid Pass-Through at Dock Interface
Docking utility connections are integrated interface assemblies comprising blind-mate electrical connectors, quick-disconnect fluid couplings, and fiber optic lines that automatically transfer power, data, and fluids between mated lunar modules. Rated for the same pressure differential as the structural dock interface, these standardized connections align during hard-docking and permit tool-free module separation. On the lunar surface, these interfaces require dedicated dust protection caps to shield exposed ports from particulate contamination, while the mating mechanisms and fluid couplings are designed to operate reliably after decades of dormancy to support diverse future module configurations.
Utility connections automatically mating when modules are docked for power, data, and fluid transfer
Purpose
Utility connections automatically mating when modules are docked for power, data, and fluid transfer
Context
Child of L2-STR-DOCK
Principles
- ▸Blind-mate connectors align and connect automatically during hard-dock
- ▸Utility connections rated for same pressure differential as structural dock
- ▸Quick-disconnect fittings enable module separation without tool access
- ▸Standardized utility interface supports diverse future module types
Typical implementations
- ▸ISS CBM utility jumper connections
- ▸NDS utility interface specifications
- ▸Orbital Express autonomous fluid and electrical connections
Lunar considerations
- ▸Utility connections must function after decades of dormancy
- ▸Dust protection caps required on exposed utility ports
- ▸Unknown future module utility needs require flexible interface design
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Utility connections automatically mating when modules are docked for power, data, and fluid transfer |
Physical
| materials | Blind-mate electrical connectors, Quick-disconnect fluid couplings, Fiber optic data pass-through |
Interfaces
Provides
- Automatic utility connections at dock interface
Requires
- Physical alignment and preload for utility connections
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Docking Utility Connections" (L3-STR-DOCK-UTIL). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L3-STR-DOCK-UTIL
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.