Tom Swift's rocket ship's design is identical to rocket concepts dating back to early pulp science fiction stories. A common feature of the design shown on the cover of Tom Swift and His Rocket Ship are the three engines positioned at the tips of the aero-stabilizes in the tail of the ship. Their purpose is guidance. Selective firing of the triad of smaller rockets provides Tom's ship steering during thrusting of the main core rocket engine. Such a control scheme enables pitch, roll, and yaw maneuvers.

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