Foster-Miller has applied linear motor technology to NASA programs. The Maglifter program aims to reduce the cost of space access from $10,000 to $1,000 by using electromagnetic acceleration instead of a first-stage rocket engine. This NASA program is evaluating the feasibility of using electromagnetic levitation and linear electric motor drive to assist in the launch of vehicles ranging from 100,000 to 1 million lb (vehicle plus payload weight) into low earth orbit. Our most recent efforts have focused on overall system conceptual design, evaluation of the damping characteristics of the null flux levitation system used for vehicle suspension, and construction of a subscale linear Maglev device to evaluate the performance of combined levitation and linear electromagnetic drive. The subscale system consists of a 20 ft long linear motor coupled with a 20 ft braking section. The linear motor has been demonstrated to have the ability to provide up to 10 g's acceleration of a 12 lb test vehicle.
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