what torques effect a satellite?

Question

Iknow that aerodynamic,solar radiation pressure, magnetic ,gravity gradient and micellaneous disturbance torquers effect a satellite but I don't know exactly what they are and how they effet a satellite so that it has still equilibrium in the atmosphere they are to me just some words .could you help me????????????????????????

Answer 1

Hi. If the satellite were a perfect, uniform sphere then it would not have torque effects. but if you attached a long flat panel to the sphere then the forces you mentioned would not be balanced. Light pressure, traces of atmospheric drag, gravity effects due to the minor tidal effect, all would cause the satellite to move slightly. I hope this helps.