Actuators


Actuators are devices that convert electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy into mechanical motion to control or move a system or mechanism. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, actuators are critical components of spacecraft and satellites, used to control and adjust various systems such as solar arrays, antennas, and propulsion systems. Actuators are also used in robotic systems for space exploration, such as the Mars rovers, to manipulate tools and collect samples. Actuators must be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperatures, radiation, and vacuum. They must also be highly reliable and have a long lifespan, as maintenance and repairs are difficult or impossible once a spacecraft is in orbit or on another planet.


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