scope:

Abstract:

Although stainless steel material is generally assumed to be non-magnetic, it is possible for a stainless steel propellant tank to become residually magnetized, either from "working" the material into its shape or from an external magnetic field. The associated dipole moment imparted roll torque to a commercial communications satellite, resulting in mission failure.

Do not rely solely on the known magnetic properties of constituent material(s), and take steps to control residual magnetization of flight hardware.