Apollo Docking Mechanism

The Command Service Module and Lunar Module orientation before contact

The docking system of the Apollo modules was a "probe and drogue" system. The system allowed the Apollo Command/Service Module to dock with the Apollo Lunar Module, and later allowed the Skylab 2, Skylab 3 and Skylab 4 to dock with Skylab. There were 12 hard latches.

The Apollo system differed from the Gemini Docking Mechanism in that after locking, the probe and cone mechanism could be swung out of the way, like a door, allow access between the two docked craft. Ideas from this system were instrumental in creating later systems, like those used in the Space Shuttle, the International Space Station, and others.

External links

• Apollo–Soyuz Test Project
• NTRS.NASA

Apollo program hardware
Vehicles	Apollo (spacecraft) Apollo Command/Service Module Apollo Lunar Module Lunar Escape Systems Lunar Roving Vehicle Saturn V
Vehicle components	Apollo Abort Guidance System Apollo Docking Mechanism Apollo Guidance Computer Primary Guidance, Navigation and Control System Apollo Telescope Mount Apollo TV camera Saturn Launch Vehicle Digital Computer Descent Propulsion System Ascent Propulsion System
Lunar surface	Apollo Lunar Surface Experiments Package Apollo/Skylab A7L (spacesuit) Beta cloth Lunar Laser Ranging experiment Modular Equipment Transporter Solar Wind Composition Experiment
Earth-based	Crawler-transporter Little Joe II Lunar Landing Research Vehicle Mobile Launcher Platform Mobile Quarantine Facility
Symbolic	Lunar plaque Lunar Flag Assembly Fallen Astronaut
Category:Apollo program

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