Launch Hardened Modular Component Connector

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform OBJECTIVE: The objective of the effort is to develop a docking mechanism designed to withstand space launch loads DESCRIPTION: The US Space Force has a need for a launch hardened docking mechanism for on-orbit servicing and space logistics missions. Several docking mechanism concepts, designs, and prototypes exist today, but none of them can survive launch in the docked state. This topic is primarily seeking complete docking mechanism solutions that will survive the launch environment, but enabling technologies and subsystems will also be considered responsive. Offerors should deliver a functional prototype at the end of the effort. PHASE I: A launch hardened modular component connector will be designed and at least two functional prototype connectors will delivered. The connector will have the following features: Survive launch loads as defined by: NASA-GEVS and SpaceX PLUG in both axial and lateral orientations; Capable of at least 200 engage/disengage cycles on the ground and on-orbit; Include provisions for fuel transfer between the connected spacecraft/modules; Provide for data and power pass-through between the connected spacecraft/modules; No power required to maintain the mechanical connection; Provide self-alignment within 2 degrees; SWaP consistent with small scale spacecraft, (i.e. 1/2 ESPA to 27U CubeSat); Have low recurring cost ($10k/unit for CubeSat-class mechanisms, $100k/unit for SmallSat-class mechanisms) PHASE II: The Phase I connector design will be refined and at least two spaceflight capable connectors shall be delivered PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III instructions to be provided later. REFERENCES: Davis, Joshua, John Mayberry, and Jay Penn. On-Orbit Servicing: Inspection, Repair, Refuel, Upgrade, and Assembly of Satellites in Space, Aerospace Corporation, Center for Space Policy and Strategy, April 2019; Garretson, Joshua. Satellite Servicing: A History, the Impact to the Space Force, and the Logistics Behind It, Wild Blue Yonder. USAF, Air University, (2021); Li, Wei-Jie, Da-Yi Cheng, Xi-Gang Kiu, Yao-Bing Wang, et al. On-orbit service (OOS) of spacecraft: A review of engineering developments, Progress in Aerospace Sciences 108, (2019): 32-120. KEYWORDS: OSAM; connector; robotics; assembly; modular; servicing; docking; refuel; repair; logistics