Magnetic attitude control of a spinning satellite.

Design of a self-contained magnetic attitude control system for a spinning satellite is described, and particular control techniques for sensing and actuation are developed. A specific control problem associated with the alignment of spin axis normal to the orbit plane in the presence of external perturbations is examined in detail, and a simple control system mechanization consisting of a coil and a magnetometer is described. Some of the problems associated with acquisition (control effectiveness when the initial orientation errors are large) are discussed. Finally, a control system design procedure is described with pertinent design parameters for application to a specific satellite system.