[FPSPACE] International Docking Mechanisms [was Tiangong feasability]

[Kirill Simon]

Ben,

It sounds like the International Berthing & Docking Mechanism was meant
here.  A framework document, "The Global Exploration Strategy: The
Framework for Coordination", was released by world space agencies last
year.  See:
http://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2007/may/HQ_07126_Exploration_Framework.html

Although no technical details were specified in the document.  There
were some agreements on Advanced Crew Transportation System (ACTS)
[a.k.a Crew Space Transportation System (CSTS)] with details reached,
however.  Some IBDM details can be found in ESA's presentation here
(check page 28):
http://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/spineto/2005/session4/1_esa_session4.ppt

I hope E.P. Grondine could clarify more on this.

Kirill