Skip to main content

Docking and Airlock Process

🗃️ Reference Info

Title: Docking and Airlock Process
Category: Process
Effective Date: 07/12/2022
Last Updated: 04/30/2025
Approved By: Orbital Operations Manager
Version: 3.0
Review Cycle: Biennial
Status: Active


Purpose:
Defines the standard sequence for docking operations and airlock transitions to ensure safety and system integrity during vessel transfer events.


Related Documents:
Orbital Habitat Safety Policy
Zero-G Equipment Handling Guidelines

1. Purpose

To ensure safe, consistent procedures for all docking and undocking operations across Anchorlight Consortium habitats and vessels.

2. Process Steps

  1. Pre-Docking Check – Verify pressure, alignment, and clearance.
  2. Connection Phase – Engage magnetic latches and confirm seal integrity.
  3. Pressure Equalization – Gradually adjust atmospheric pressure within tolerance limits.
  4. Crew Transfer Authorization – Confirm docking clearance from Orbital Operations Control.
  5. Disengagement – Reverse sequence ensuring no cargo or personnel remain in transition areas.

3. Monitoring and Reporting

All docking events are logged automatically and reviewed by the Operations Log Officer within 24 hours.

4. Safety Notes

  • Unauthorized manual override of airlock controls is prohibited.
  • Emergency cutoff valves must remain accessible at all times.
  • Visual inspection is required following any hard-dock incident.

Revision History

Version Date Description Approved By
3.0 04/30/2025 Added automated seal verification and sensor integration Orbital Operations Manager
2.0 09/05/2023 Updated manual override procedures Orbital Operations Manager
1.0 07/12/2022 Initial release Orbital Operations Manager