stages control devices thrust arrangement payload adapter: joins payload to rocket payload fairing: protective envelope around payload interstage adapter: structure connecting stages tanks: carry oxidizer (no air in space) and fuel; integrated into structure nozzles: convert combustion products into thrust stage: a complete rocket “unit” (propellant, engine, structure) stages control devices canards fins single stage multi-stage thrust arrangement vanes in nozzle gimbaled thrust series parallel
ailerons: provide roll control pylons: attach engines to aircraft wings: provide lift elevators: pitch control spoilers: disrupt flow (reduce lift & increase drag) horizontal stabilizer: longitudinal (pitch) stability flaps: provide additional lift (trailing edge) vertical stabilizer (fin): lateral (yaw) stability nacelles: enclose engines fuselage: envelope around payload and crew rudder: yaw control nose gear: ground steering main gear: support aircraft weight on ground