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inertial guidance system

inertial guidance system

7.2
A device that finds and controls a plane or spacecraft position using movement sensors instead of outside signals
  • noun
  • /ɪˈnɜrʃəl ˈɡaɪdəns ˈsɪstəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : sistema de guiado inercial
  • Pilots trust the inertial guidance system to maintain accurate positioning during flight.

Examples

  • An inertial guidance system helps ensure the aircraft stays on the correct path, even in bad weather.

  • Let me show you the new inertial guidance system.

    Fiction book (1994)
  • The inertial guidance system, the engine, and ring laser gyros for the AJTs are being supplied by France.

    Academic text (1999)
  • The spacecraft relies on an inertial guidance system to navigate through space without needing external signals.

Synonyms

inertial navigation system
vsinertial guidance system
  • Specialized
1 7.2

A machine that uses its own sensors to find a moving object's position and speed without outside signals

also controls movement rather than only measuring position
inertial navigation
vsinertial guidance system
  • Specialized
1 8.3

A way to find position and speed using motion sensors without external signals

also controls movement rather than only providing position and velocity
inertial guidance
vsinertial guidance system
  • Specialized
8.3

A method to find and keep direction using instruments that measure movement and turning without outside signals

also determines precise position in addition to control

How Autonomous

inertial guidance system
  • Specialized
7.2
dead reckoning
  • Specialized
1 8.1
celestial navigation
  • Specialized
1 7.7
Global Positioning System
  • Specialized
4 3.4
navigational system
  • Specialized
3 4.4

Surface Forms

Morphology

inertial + guidance + system

The phrase is compositional: 'inertial' (relating to inertia) + 'guidance' (controlling a path) + 'system' (a set of components) directly yields a system that provides guidance by means of inertia. Although the term is technical, its meaning follows standard noun-modifier composition and would be understandable to a learner who already knows the constituent words.

Etymology

Inertial guidance system is like a person walking in the dark who counts their steps and remembers each turn. Tiny instruments inside feel movement and turning and add it up from a known start, so the vehicle can 'find' its position and move 'without external signals'.