Solar radiation for the stabilization of satellites?

[Fernando Silva]

Hi, I'm new here.
I have a doubt regarding solar radiation, I heard in an astronomy class on the use of this solar radiation for the stabilization of satellites in orbit due to mechanical problems with their stabilizers.

Electromagnetic waves emitted through solar radiation stabilize such a satellite because of the radiation pressure. My question is, do other electromagnetic radiations that permeate the solar system do not influence this stabilization? And yet another question about this stabilization, would not this also influence the synchronization of the internal clock of that satellite?

 

[anorlunda]

All electromagnetic radiation carries momentum. Whether this is significant or not depends on the numbers; intensity of the radiation, surface area, and mass of the object. For example, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_sail

I do not see the connection between radiation and clocks. What did you have in mind?

 

[berkeman]

I heard in an astronomy class on the use of this solar radiation for the stabilization of satellites in orbit due to mechanical problems with their stabilizers.

Welcome to the PF, Fernando.

What kind of problems were discussed in your class? One form of stabilization is via motor-driven gyros ("reaction wheels"), and that can just use electrical energy gathered by the satellite's solar panels. No momentum transfer is needed for this rotational stabilization. Were you referring to some sort of translation via solar energy momentum (solar sail)?

https://www.centennialofflight.net/essay/Dictionary/STABILIZATION/DI172.htm