In the context of transportation and logistics, "payload" refers to the total weight of cargo that a vehicle can carry, excluding its own weight. This includes goods, materials, or any other items being transported. Understanding payload capacity is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency in operations, whether for trucks, ships, or aircraft. In the realm of space exploration, "payload" describes the instruments, equipment, or scientific experiments carried by a spacecraft. For example, a satellite launched by a rocket is considered its payload. The design and weight of the payload are essential factors in mission planning and vehicle selection.