Apollo Docking Latch

Docking an Apollo Command Module to a Lunar Module was a two-step process: the head of the Command Module's probe is guided to the bottom of the Lunar Module's drogue. Three capture latches engage to hold the two spacecraft together.

The probe is then retracted, pulling the CM and LM together. Twelve latches mounted to the CM's docking ring activate, latching to the LM docking flange, forming an air-tight seal.

For additional information on the docking latches, see the Apollo Experience Report: The Docking System (pages 21-22; pp. 29-30 in the PDF) and the "Docking Subsystem" section of the Apollo Command Module News Reference (page 92, which is page 6 of the Docking Subsystem PDF).

The USSRC has a docking latch in off-exhibit storage; I was able to photograph one during a quick tour.