reentry vehicle

n. (Abbr. RV)
The part of a spacecraft or missile that reenters Earth's atmosphere.

1. the part of a space vehicle that is designed to re-enter the earth's atmosphere in the terminal portion of its trajectory.

2. the part of a ballistic missile that contains warheads and is designed for reentry into the atmosphere and delivery to a target.

See the Introduction, Abbreviations and Pronunciation for further details.

(DOD, NATO) That part of a space vehicle designed to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere in the terminal portion of its trajectory. Also called RV. See also maneuverable reentry vehicle; multiple reentry vehicle.