Space Mechanisms
Antenna Pointing Mechanisms
A common movable element on spacecraft is the communication (or radar/microwave) antenna. Antenna Posinting Mechanisms (APMs) have long been used to perform the vital function of pointing the antenna boresight to its target, and tracking to maintain the RF link to the spacecraft.
Linear Actuators
Our Linear Actuators use a ball screw to translate the rotary motion of a brushless DC motor to linear output motion. The torque transmitted to the ball screw is amplified through a helical gear transmission. Each motor is a 3-phase, multi-pole, permanent magnet, brushless DC design.
Rotary Actuators
The Rotary Actuator consists of a small-angle, permanent magnet stepper motor coupled with a Harmonic Drive Speed reducer, with a large rotating flange output member. The family of Rotary Actuators is based on heritage design with a wide range of step sizes available.
Solar Array Drive Assemblies
Moog has over 40 years of experience with solar array drive assemblies (SADA), for both Earth orbit and planetary missions. The solar power application is one of the most established for Moog actuators and biaxial gimbals.
Optical Filter Wheel Assemblies
Moog’s design of Filter Wheel Assemblies is unique in concept and has been used successfully on several space missions. The design is based on integrating the motor rotor with the optical disk thus providing an optimized solution with high torque in the most compact volume and with lower mass.
Gimbals
Moog Biaxial Gimbals are well suited for performing electric-propulsion thruster articulation, spaceflight tracking, scanning, and positioning functions. Applications include solar array drives, antenna positioners, and optical telescope and instrument drives.
