A gimbal is a device that allows an object to rotate freely about one or more axes. It consists of a ring or frame that is pivoted on one or more axes, and an inner ring or frame that is attached to the object. The inner ring is free to rotate within the outer ring, and the outer ring is free to rotate about the pivot axis.

Gimbals are used to isolate an object from the effects of external vibrations or accelerations. For example, a gimbal is used to mount the compass in a ship, so that the compass remains level even when the ship is rolling or pitching. Gimbals are also used to mount gyroscopes, accelerometers, and other instruments that need to be precisely aligned with respect to gravity or another reference frame.

What does a gimbal have to do with NASA?

NASA uses gimbals to mount a variety of instruments on its spacecraft and rovers. For example, the Hubble Space Telescope is mounted on a gimbal so that it can point accurately at stars and galaxies. The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has a gimbaled camera that can take high-resolution images of the Martian surface. And the Perseverance rover has a gimbaled drill that can collect samples of Martian rock.

Gimbals are essential for many of NASA's missions. They allow scientists to collect accurate data from space and to explore the surfaces of other planets.