ABOUT NASA DOCKING SYSTEM (NDS)
The NASA Docking System is the US implementation of the IDSS standard, used on Commercial Crew vehicles docking to the ISS via International Docking Adapters. Built by Boeing, it provides pressurized crew transfer and automated soft-capture capability. NDS replaced the APAS system used during the Shuttle era.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Category | Docking |
| Subcategory | Active Docking Mechanism |
| Manufacturer | Boeing |
| Mass | 340 kg |
| Power | 200 W |
| Dimensions | 1200 mm diameter x 600 mm depth |
| Redundancy | Redundant capture latches and hooks |
| Standard | IDSS Rev E compliant |
| Status | Active |
| First Use | March 2, 2019 |
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
Electromagnetic soft-capture ring aligns vehicles; motorized hooks pull to hard dock and form pressurized seal
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
| soft_capture_force_n | 500 |
| hard_capture_hooks | 12 |
| crew_transfer | Yes |
| automated | Yes |
MASS CONVERSIONS
| Kilograms | 340.0 kg |
| Pounds | 749.6 lbs |
VEHICLES USING NASA DOCKING SYSTEM (NDS) (4)