How does a gyroscope resist changes in direction?

When an object spins, it has angular momentum, which tends to keep the spin axis pointed in the same direction. If a force tries to tilt the gyroscope, the response is not a simple tip-over; instead, it precesses, meaning the axis slowly turns at right angles to the applied torque. This behavior is why gyroscopes are used in inertial navigation, cameras, and stabilization systems. The principle is also important in spacecraft and satellites, which use reaction wheels and control moment gyros. The mathematics of gyroscopic motion is a classic part of mechanics.