Nutation (source code)

= Nutation
{title2=$\theta(t)$}
{wiki}

Variation in the inclination of a rotating body's axis, distinguished from its azimuthal <precession>. For a <heavy symmetric top>, the cyclic angular momenta reduce the motion to $\dot\mu^2=F(\mu)$ with $\mu=\cos\theta$ and $F$ cubic. Its admissible interval and turning points describe the nutation.