Kinematic tests on a docking mechanism for microsatellites

DOCKS is a smart docking system developed within the framework of the Space Rider Observer Cube mission (SROC) but suitable for use in more general scenarios. This paper presents the mechanical design of the system and the kinematic tests performed on it. The system merges a classical probe drogue configuration with a gripper-like design, to manage the connection between the parts, and it is equipped with a suite of sensors to estimate the relative pose of the target. The system is also equipped with a dedicated computer, making it a smart standalone system. A series of kinematic tests have been conducted to validate the capability of the system to passively manage misalignment during the docking manoeuvre. The final tests are presented to assess the maximum load that the system could handle, even when inactive.