The requirement for a docking standard within a system of systems infrastructure

There is a growing movement to establish a pressurised docking standard for all crewed space systems. Considering the history of terrestrial standards it is clear once established it wil never be possible to alter it, and any deficiencies will affect space activity forever. To ensure the end result does not end up constraining the future of space flight great care should be taken to maximise the flexibility of the standard. It is argued that all potential connections for spacecraft exceeding a tonne in mass, in all extraterrestrial locations and in a scenario that includes unrestricted public access can be covered by a single university connection standard. To prove this contention the requirements that follow are outlined and then a feasibility design that meets these requirements is described.