Boeing [BA] will develop a new docking system for the International Space Station (ISS) called NASA Docking System Block-1 (NDSB-1) after recently completing a critical design review (CDR), according to a company statement.
In compliance with the International Docking System (IDS) standard, Boeing said NDSB-1 will be compatible with any spacecraft. The company said it is on schedule for 2016 delivery.
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 (IDA), which are also built by Boeing. 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- (SLS) sized vehicles. Boeing spokesman Adam Morgan said Wednesday this includes things like reductions in mass, ways to lower power consumption and compatibility for higher radiation environments that deep space exploration brings.