Docking
On 4 April 2010, three minutes ahead of schedule, Soyuz TMA-18 successfully docked to the Poisk module on the ISS at 5:25 UTC. Shortly after the initial contact automatic closing of Soyuz & MRM2 port hooks and latches took place while the space station was in free drift. As part of docking preparations, earlier attitude control authority had been handed over to the Russian Motion Control System at approximately 3:10 UTC. The control was returned to US CMG control at approximately 6:50 UTC. For the docking, the Russian thrusters were disabled during Soyuz volume pressurization and clamp installation and after wards returned to active attitude control. Before hatch opening, the crew performed leak checks of the Soyuz modules and the Soyuz/MRM2 interface vestibule. They then removed their Sokol suits, and Kornienko set them and their gloves up for drying. Skvortsov deactivated the BOA/Atmosphere Purification Unit in the SA/Descent Module, replaced the Soyuz ECLSS LiOH cartridges, equalized Soyuz/ISS pressures, and put the spacecraft into conservation mode on ISS integrated power.
After about 1 hour 45 minutes spent in Soyuz on pre-transfer activities, hatches were opened at 7:21 UTC and the crew transferred to the ISS. A welcome ceremony for the new arrivals followed hatch opening with family members and dignitaries participating from the Russian mission control center in Korolev. Skvortsov also installed the quick disconnect clamps of the docking & internal transfer mechanism (SSVP) to firm the joint.
The Soyuz spacecraft is intended to remain docked to the space station for the remainder of Expedition 24 to serve as an emergency escape vehicle.
Read more about this topic: Soyuz TMA-18