A "payload" refers to the part of a vehicle, such as a rocket or drone, that carries the intended cargo or equipment. This can include scientific instruments, satellites, or even supplies for missions. The payload is crucial because it determines the primary purpose of the vehicle and what it can achieve during its operation. In the context of cybersecurity, a payload can also refer to the malicious code delivered by a computer virus or malware. This code is designed to perform harmful actions, such as stealing data or damaging systems. Understanding payloads is essential for both aerospace and cybersecurity fields.