// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Gimbal
A pivoted support that allows an object, like a rocket engine, to rotate freely in one or more directions, enabling thrust vectoring for steering.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A mechanical mounting system, typically consisting of two or three concentric rings, that allows an object (e.g., a rocket engine, gyroscope, or camera) to pivot freely about an axis, providing angular motion control for thrust vectoring or stabilization.
BACKGROUND
The International Space Station (ISS) is a space station in low Earth orbit (LEO). It is the product of the International Space Station program and is operated by five partner space agencies: NASA, Roscosmos (Russia), ESA (Europe), JAXA (Japan), and CSA (Canada). It is the first space station built, maintained and crewed through international cooperation and the largest human spacecraft ever constructed. It is an orbital research station, where scientific experiments in microgravity are conducted and the space environment is studied. Since 2 November 2000, it has hosted the longest continuous presence of humans in space. Alongside Tiangong, it is one of the only two currently operational space stations.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Gimbal Mount
- Swivel Joint
- Pivot Mechanism
- Thrust Vectoring System
USAGE NOTE
Rocket engines are often gimbaled to steer the launch vehicle by directing the thrust.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Gimbal.
Develops advanced rocket propulsion systems that extensively use gimbals for thrust vectoring on their Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, enabling precise control during flight.
A leading provider of propulsion systems for space launch, missile defense, and in-space applications, frequently employing gimbaled nozzles for thrust vector control on their engines.
Specializes in high-performance motion control systems, including precision gimbals and actuators used in aerospace and defense for missile control, satellite pointing, and sensor stabilization.
Designs and manufactures propulsion systems for launch vehicles and spacecraft, as well as satellite payloads and sensors that rely on advanced gimbal systems for precise aiming and stabilization.
Develops rocket engines, such as the BE-3 and BE-4, for its New Shepard and New Glenn launch vehicles, which incorporate gimbaled thrust chambers for trajectory control.
A major player in the aerospace and defense industry, utilizing gimbals in satellite antenna pointing systems, missile guidance, and various other space-based instruments and platforms.
Develops and manufactures satellites, space equipment, and launch vehicle components, integrating gimbals for propulsion system control, antenna pointing, and instrument orientation on numerous missions.
As a government agency, NASA's various centers and projects often research, develop, and utilize sophisticated gimbal systems for spacecraft propulsion (e.g., thrust vectoring), scientific instrument pointing (e.g., JWST), and advanced sensor stabilization.