Launch Deploy and Docking Mechanism - Half-ESPA Size: Phase II

Apech Labs is offering NASA a satellite launch-hardened deploy and docking mechanism (LDDM) for the half-ESPA size class. LDDM is envisioned as a product family with extensibility to ESPA and ESPA-grande applications. The mechanism is divided into an active and passive half. The active half includes an actuated fastener V-band hard capture system, and a scissor style actuated boom soft capture mechanism. The passive half only requires a V-band flanged ring and passive capture probe to enable basic launch/docking capability. The mechanism will be reusable for a minimum of 200 docking cycles. Phase I of the program culminated with a preliminary design and functional brassboard hardware. Phase II of the program will mature the design to a prototype level, add electrical and fluid couplings, environmentally test the system in key environments, and demonstrate docking performance. Apech Labs is a 2020 startup with extensive experience in complex aerospace product development and electromechanical actuation. We will bring these capabilities to bear to provide the best possible offering to NASA. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Moog to provide technical and business insights and to explore becoming a commercialization partner. While solutions exist today for large spacecraft docking and deployment, no single solution can provide both multi-use docking/undocking on-orbit as well as the ability to support payloads in a space launch environment.  As such, the development of a low cost, small scale, docking mechanism able to support payloads through space launch can close an existing gap in capability and unlock ISAM capabilities (in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing). Over 70% of satellites launched are small satellites that are compatible with Apech Labs’ Launch Hardened Deploy and Docking Mechanism (LDDM) family. The combination of rugged hard capture that enables launch survivability, a soft capture system that enables docking, and electrical/fluid interconnects that allow transfer of fluids and data between spacecraft creates nearly limitless opportunities. Using LDDM saves satellites mass and cost by combining docking and separation into one system. LDDM enables spacecraft separation, refueling, upgrading, hosting of small inspection/repair satellites, and in-space structure assembly. The objectives for Phase II of the LDDM program include updating LDDM’s specifications and developing all subsystems to a flight-like prototype (hard capture, soft capture, electrical connector, fluid coupler) design. This design will be used to procure prototypes of the 8” sized LDDM, which will undergo performance and environmental testing including thermal vacuum and random vibration testing to ensure launch and in-space survivability. This testing also intends to help outline a path to flight qualification for LDDM. Docking performance testing will also occur to ensure system performance. Final deliverables to NASA include a complete flight-like LDDM-08 prototype system (consisting of both passive and active halves), as well as a final report detailing all work done as part of the Phase II program.

Potential NASA applications for LDDM include the hosting of scientific payloads with the ability to deploy/undock them as desired. Similarly, LDDM’s thermal and electrical interface allows hosting of satellite upgrade hardware. LDDM also provides large satellites and persistent platforms (e.g. Gateway) the capability to host smaller satellites for inspection/repair purposes. LDDM enables on-orbit refueling and other ISAM capabilities. LDDM can be adapted as a standard payload-hosting interface for LSITP payloads. Non-NASA applications primarily include spacecraft separation and spacecraft refueling. LDDM is primed for use as a separation system with the added capability of enabling future serviceability/upgradeability for client craft, including refueling, and repair, and upgrade services. LDDM supports DOD uses including satellite system of systems, enhanced mobility, and enemy spacecraft manipulation.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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