Diamagnetic Levitation Using High-Temperature Superconducting Wires for Microgravity Research and Mitigation in Human Spaceflight Applications

TL;DR

This paper explores the use of high-temperature superconducting electromagnets to levitate large diamagnetic objects, including humans, for microgravity research, training, and potential space travel applications, supported by finite element simulations.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of HTS electromagnets for human-sized microgravity levitation and discusses future space travel uses, backed by simulation validation.

Findings

Feasibility of levitating large diamagnetic targets demonstrated

Potential for microgravity training and human organ manipulation

Finite element simulations support design viability

Abstract

A novel use of high temperature superconducting (HTS) electromagnets for human sized microgravity research and mitigation is outlined. Recent advances in HTS technology have resulted in electromagnets that potentially could levitate large diamagnetic targets, such as human organs, for additive manufacturing or entire humans for microgravity training. These applications are then used as a springboard to discuss the possibility of active microgravity compensation and inertial dampeners for future space travel applications. Finite element simulations are used to check the validity of the designs and motivate future research.