What Is a Gantry?

A gantry is a device that surrounds and protects a rocket on a runway before its launch. The gantry acts as a home and safe haven. It also makes it easier for engineers to work on the rocket.

Features

Gantries all feature wheels so that they can be rolled away right before a launch. They also feature staircases, elevators, maintenance platforms and entry ramps for those used with manned rockets.

Significance

Gantries allow easy access to large rockets. Maintenance members and crew can easily board and reach all important areas of the rocket for repairs.

Materials

A gantry is typically made of steel or some other strong, metal alloy. It encloses a rocket on the launch pad and is made of various girders, support systems and platforms.

Geography

Gantries are used across the world, carrying the same form wherever they're used. The more modern ones are used by nations with active space programs, such as the United States and Russia.

Colors

Gantries used in western nations are painted red and white so that they comply with aircraft safety standards. In Russia and surrounding nations, they're often painted in military camouflage colors.