<p>The attitude control system is critical for the overall performance of satellites in orbit, making the design of a high-precision control system essential. In recent years, fractional-order model predictive control has gained attention as an effective strategy for satellite attitude control. However, there remain unresolved issues concerning the stability and feasibility of nonlinear fractional-order model predictive control. To address these gaps, a new approach, known as Lyapunov-based fractional-order model predictive control, is introduced. This method establishes conditions for feasibility and closed-loop stability for nonlinear fractional-order model predictive control applied to satellite attitude control. Simulation results and comparative analyses demonstrate that the proposed controller maintains closed-loop stability and exhibits improved performance compared to the conventional Lyapunov-based model predictive control method. Notably, the proposed controller’s mean absolute error is reduced by 53% compared to Lyapunov-based model predictive control approaches. Furthermore, the convergence time is reduced to approximately 1.5&#xa0;s. In conclusion, the Lyapunov-based fractional-order model predictive control approach employing a sliding-mode-control-based Lyapunov contraction constraint and reaction wheels provides an effective framework for satellite attitude control. The results indicate the potential of the proposed method for improving transient performance and stability.</p>