Universal Space Interface Standard

Development is currently being undertaken by Mark Hempsell at Hempsell Astronautics Ltd.[2] The rationale for the creation of an industry standard for spacecraft interfaces is that the number of applications for space vehicles is likely to increase greatly in the future (space tourism being a recent example).

This is somewhat analogous to the benefits which have been gained by widespread adoption of the USB connector in computing or even the standardisation of AC power plugs and sockets across some parts of the world.

The fundamental purpose of USIS has been stated to "be a standard connection that maximises the interconnectivity between independent systems in both the open space (orbital) and celestial body surface environments".

USIS also needs to be able to facilitate data, power and resource transfer when connected, and allow easy passage of personnel who are not necessarily trained astronauts in anticipation of the Space Tourism industry.

[3] Three potential designs have been proposed for the USIS concept, one from Reaction Engines, one from Qinetiq and one most recently from Hempsell Astronautics.