space medium Fill in the Blank

Reaction wheels control spacecraft orientation by conserving _______ momentum.

  1. Linear
  2. Angular
  3. Orbital
  4. Thermal

Answer: Angular

Accelerating/decelerating reaction wheels transfers angular momentum to/from spacecraft body, enabling precise pointing without propellant expenditure.

Topic Space Technology - Attitude Control
Exam Relevance ISRO Scientist Exam, SSC CPO