Bearings & Components for Space Research, Development & Prototyping
Research, development and prototyping play an important role in creating and testing new space technologies, mechanical systems and experimental equipment.
Bearings, linear motion components, rod end bearings, spherical plain bearings, and bushes can support movement, positioning and mechanical connections across prototypes, test assemblies and specialist engineering projects.
Component requirements can vary considerably between projects. Consider dimensions, load, movement, accuracy, materials and operating conditions when selecting components for research and development applications.
Components Used in Space Research, Development & Prototyping
Precision Bearings
Precision bearings can support accurate, controlled rotary movement across experimental mechanisms, test equipment and precision engineering assemblies.
Different bearing designs, tolerances, internal clearances and materials are available depending on speed, load, accuracy and operating requirements.
When selecting a bearing, consider the dimensions, technical specifications and requirements of the individual assembly.
Explore our range of precision bearings.
Miniature Bearings
Miniature bearings provide compact rotary support for prototypes, instrumentation and experimental mechanisms where available space and component dimensions may be limited.
Different bearing configurations, materials and sealing arrangements are available to suit a variety of mechanical requirements.
Use existing component references and accurate dimensions wherever possible when identifying a bearing.
Explore our range of miniature bearings.
Linear Motion Components

Linear motion components provide controlled movement along shafts, rails and other defined linear paths.
Linear bearings, guide systems and related components can be used in prototypes, positioning mechanisms, test equipment and experimental engineering assemblies where controlled linear movement is required.
Consider travel, load, accuracy, shaft or rail dimensions and mounting requirements when selecting components.
Explore our range of linear motion components.
Bushes & Plain Bearings

Bushes and plain bearings provide a compact solution for supporting shafts, pins and pivot points where sliding or oscillating movement is required.
Different materials and designs are available depending on load, movement, lubrication and operating conditions, making them useful across a wide variety of prototype and experimental mechanical assemblies.
Use accurate dimensions and the original design requirements when selecting a component.
Explore our range of bushes and plain bearings.
Rod End Bearings
Rod end bearings provide articulated mechanical connections where oscillating, rotary or angular movement is required.
They can be used across experimental mechanisms, linkages and development assemblies to provide controlled articulation between connected components.
When selecting a rod end, consider bore size, thread size, thread direction, dimensions, material and application requirements.
Explore our range of rod end bearings.
Selecting Components for Research & Prototyping
Research and prototyping can involve changing designs, unusual operating conditions and highly specific mechanical requirements.
Consider load, speed, movement, accuracy, temperature, materials, lubrication and operating environment when selecting bearings and engineering components.
Testing components under intended operating conditions can form an important part of the development process before a design progresses towards its final specification.
Where a project involves vacuum environments, extreme temperatures, critical systems or flight hardware, specialist components, materials, lubrication, documentation, testing or certification may be required.
Always confirm component suitability against the relevant engineering specifications and project requirements.
Find Bearings & Components for Space Research & Development
Simply Bearings supplies an extensive range of precision bearings, miniature bearings, linear motion components, bushes, rod end bearings and other engineering components for research, prototyping, testing and specialist engineering applications.
Our product range and technical support can help identify components using part numbers, manufacturer references, dimensions and technical specifications.
Explore our Space Exploration industry page to discover components for space robotics, research and prototyping, precision motion systems, testing and ground-support applications.