A Spacecraft Model Flying Around a Levitated Globe Using YBCO Bulk Superconductors

作者:Yang, W. M.*; Chao, X. X.; Ma, J.; Li, G. Z.
来源:Journal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism, 2010, 23(7): 1391-1394.
DOI:10.1007/s10948-010-0789-6

摘要

A small spacecraft model flying around a levitated globe has been designed based on magnetic force. The globe can be levitated in mid-air by the interaction between the magnets fixed at the North and South poles and the YBCO bulk superconductors installed on the globe frame near each of the poles. The magnetic track for the spacecraft is located at the equatorial circumference. When the small spacecraft with YBCO bulks is being cooled to LN(2) temperature at a certain distance apart from the track, then the spacecraft can be automatically suspended in mid-air near the track and moved along the track without any obvious friction after a push by a hand. The model can be used as a demonstration of magnetic levitation, suspension, side suspending, magnetic bearing, flywheel energy storage, flying spacecraft principle, and can also be used as an educational experiment for the diamagnetic effect and applications of superconducting materials to students.

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