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JPL/Hughes Developed Microgyros

JPL and Hughes joined forces to develop a new breed of microgyros. These gyroscopes are designed for use in space flight qualified solid-state technology. They have no moving parts and provide the required long lifetime. They are able to replace gyroscopes with similar capabilities that are very expensive, power-hungry and bulky, weighing up to 20 pounds or more.

The exclusive use of silicon helps to reduce costs, since this durable material is now routinely used for computer chips and it is thus more easily fabricated than other materials.