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

Under the agreement, Europe would have provided a service module to power a crew capsule carrying up to six passengers. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 30 Sep. 2026

During the rendezvous with the space station, five thrusters in the capsule's service module failed, resulting in a temporary loss of full maneuverability. — William Harwood, CBS News, 28 Sep. 2026

Both the service module and Orion capsule are now being prepared for joining and eventual transportation to the VAB for stacking. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 15 July 2026

The service module, built by the European Space Agency (ESA), is based on the Automated Transfer Vehicle, an uncrewed spacecraft that supplied the International Space Station (ISS). — Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for service module

• nodule

Kids Definition

service module

noun

: a part of a space vehicle containing oxygen, water, fuel cells, fuel tanks, and the main rocket engine