[amsat-bb] Magnetic Field Stabalization

[Bob Bruninga <bruninga@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Satellite Designers,

I had wanted to add bar magnets to our satellite (a cube) to give us a
predictable oreintation.   The alternative is nothing and just letting it
be random.  I dont like this. since I fear it could stay in one
orientation for long periods and overheat on one side.

The proponent of this laisse faire approach says that if you wanted to
keep it oriented one way, you couldnt, so he concludes that it will
therefore always be moving.   But he cannot tell me how much.

Where is the best report on the spin/tumble of the microsats and even
better, how can I prove to this person that there is a risk of temporary
stabilities that can overheat one side.  Or are my fears unfounded and
random forces will assure even heating of a 10 inch symetric cube with
only a few asymetric tape measure whips?

de WB4APR, Bob

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