Rudder
In the context of aerospace engineering, a rudder is a primary control surface used to steer a spacecraft, aircraft, or other vehicles that move through air or space. It is typically a flat piece of material attached to the rear or 'aft' end of the vehicle. The rudder works by changing the direction of the airflow passing the vehicle, thus generating a force that turns the vehicle in a desired direction. In aircraft, the rudder is used primarily to counter adverse yaw and p-factor and helps in maintaining coordinated flight by allowing the pilot to correct for 'slip' or 'skid' conditions. In spacecraft, the rudder can be used to control the vehicle's orientation or 'attitude' in space. The rudder is controlled by the pilot, either directly through a control stick or indirectly through an autopilot system. The design and effectiveness of the rudder are critical aspects of aerospace engineering, affecting both the performance and safety of the vehicle.
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