Spacecraft Control Mechanisms Quiz

What is a key advantage of reaction wheels over thrusters in controlling spacecraft orientation?

• They are more fuel-efficient.

• They can change the spacecraft's location.

• They are less precise.

• They require no electricity.

How many reaction wheels does the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope have, and why?

• Three, for basic orientation control.

• Four, for additional stability.

• Six, for redundancy and faster pointing.

• Five, to balance the spacecraft.

What is the approximate size of each reaction wheel on the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope?

• The size of a car tire.

• The size of an extra-large pizza.

• The size of a basketball.

• The size of a small pizza.

Why do reaction wheels need thrusters to assist them occasionally?

• To increase their speed beyond maximum.

• To unload momentum when they reach maximum rotation speed.

• To power them with electricity.

• To change the spacecraft's color.

What is the primary function of thrusters in the context of spacecraft movement?

• To store angular momentum.

• To change the spacecraft's location.

• To provide electricity to the spacecraft.

• To rotate the spacecraft in place.