### Question
How does the law define payload?


### Answer
Under *51 U.S.C. § 50501*, **payload** is defined as:

> an object which a person undertakes to launch, and includes subcomponents of the launch vehicle specifically designed or adapted for that object

#### Citation:
  - *51 U.S.C. § 50501*
  - Heading: **Subtitle V-Programs Targeting Commercial Opportunities > CHAPTER 505-COMMERCIAL SPACE COMPETITIVENESS**

