Structural Elements
Structural elements refer to the components of a spacecraft that provide support and stability to the vehicle during launch, in orbit, and during re-entry. These elements include the primary structure, which is the backbone of the spacecraft and supports all other components, as well as secondary structures such as brackets, struts, and panels that provide additional support and attachment points for other systems. Structural elements must be designed to withstand the extreme conditions of spaceflight, including high acceleration forces during launch, thermal cycling, and exposure to radiation. They must also be lightweight to minimize the overall mass of the spacecraft. Materials commonly used for structural elements include aluminum, titanium, and composites. The design and construction of structural elements is a critical aspect of spacecraft engineering, as failure of these components can result in catastrophic mission failure.
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