Two axis gimbal having a spherical bearing

This invention pertains generally to communications and guidance systems, and more particularly to a two axis gimbal for controlling a mirror or radar dish in such a system. A two axis gimbal is provided comprising a support structure, a spherical bearing mounted to the support structure and defining a channel therethrough, and a shaft extending through the channel. The gimbal may also include a reflector connected to the shaft. A drive mechanism, such as a spherical motor, is mounted to the support structure and is adapted to rotate the shaft in two orthogonal axes, i.e., pitch and roll. Power and signal cables are connected to the drive mechanism. The gimbal of the present invention may also include pairs of sensors and sensor triggers for monitoring the position of the shaft and the reflector relative to the pitch and roll axes. The design of the two axis gimbal of the present invention permits the cables to remain stationary during operation of the gimbal.