Landställ

Landställ is a ground-support structure used to hold and service a rocket or missile on the ground before and during launch. It provides vertical stability, holds the vehicle in alignment, and houses service connections such as fueling lines, electrical umbilicals, and data connections. Landställ can be fixed at a launch site or move with the vehicle, and many designs feature retractable arms or mechanisms that separate from the rocket at lift-off.

Typical components include a load-bearing frame, pedestal or leg supports, clamps or sockets to secure the vehicle, service arms for fueling and electrical connections, and an access gantry or platform for technician access. Some landställs also integrate ventilation, exhaust handling, and instrumentation interfaces, all designed to allow safe and efficient preparation of the vehicle.

Operation generally involves raising and securing the rocket within the landställ, mating all service connections, and performing final checks before countdown. At launch, retractable arms or detach mechanisms move away to clear the rocket’s path, and the vehicle is released from the structure.

Types range from fixed, pad-mounted landställs that remain during launch to mobile or semi-mobile variants used for transport, assembly, or vertical integration. Modern designs often emphasize rapid retraction, reduced interference with engine exhaust, and integration with broader ground-support systems.

See also: launch pad, service tower, mobile service structure, umbilical tower.