On permanent rotation of an equatorial satellite in the geomagnetic field

Permanent rotations of a magnetized spacecraft are considered. The shape of the cone of the permanent axes is revealed, and those generants on it which correspond to the actual motion are noted. By formulating Lyapunov functions certain axes about which the rotation is stable are isolated. In conclusion a series of particular cases is considered. The launching of a satellite into a stable permanent-rotation mode allows it to be stabilized in a specific manner relative to the lines of force of the geomagnetic field.Translated from Izvestiya Vysshikh Uchebnykh Zavedenii, Radiofizika, Vol. 15, No. 3, pp. 405–418, March, 1972.