service module

noun

: a space vehicle module that contains oxygen, water, fuel cells, propellant tanks, and the main rocket engine

Examples of service module in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But during the docking process, several thrusters on the spacecraft’s service module, which are used to move the capsule around in orbit, malfunctioned. NBC News, 19 Mar. 2025 These include the software woes that kept the spacecraft from reaching the space station on the 2019 test flight and the use of valves in the ship's service module that were susceptible to corrosion. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 4 Feb. 2025 Related: How Russia's Progress spaceships work (infographic) After a two-day chase of the International Space Station, the Progress will autonomously dock to the aft port of the Zvezda service module at 6:03 p.m. EST (2303 GMT) on Saturday (March 1). Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 27 Feb. 2025 Around 90 seconds later, a set of forward-facing thrusters on Starliner's service module will fire in a series of 12 pulses over a few minutes to drive the spacecraft farther away from the space station. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 6 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for service module

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of service module was in 1961

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Cite this Entry

“Service module.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/service%20module. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

service module

noun
: a part of a space vehicle containing oxygen, water, fuel cells, fuel tanks, and the main rocket engine
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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