The preprint is devoted to an orientation problem of the small axisymmetrical satellite. Under the assumption, required orientation of the satellite is maintained due to its spin-rotation around of the axis of symmetry. Magnetic coils which interact with the magnetic field of the Earth implement spin-rate control and the spin-axis orientation control. The coil control algorithms and usage of the nutation damper are considered. The effect of the gravitational torque on the attitude motion is investigated. The magnitude of the minimum dipole moment that is necessary for compensation of the gravitational disturbance is estimated for various orientations of the spin axis. Analytical results are confirmed by numerical simulation of the satellite attitude motion.

Theoretical and applied problems of mechanics