Rather than a spinning circular motion the linear induction motor produces thrust in straight lines. For this track a model spacecraft rests on aluminum carrier that is pushed and pulled along by the alternating magnetic forces created by the induction motor. The end result over the length of the track is an acceleration six times that of Earth's gravity. After receiving this extra boost a real spacecraft would fire its rocket engines to complete its launch into orbit. The weight of the propellant is a major culprit in the high cost of conventional rocket launches.
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This new track will help to determine if maglev technologies offer a realistic alternative for reducing the cost of access to space, to help open the door to commercialization and exploration of space. Now, with larger-scale experiments, we want to demonstrate that control can be maintained at high speeds along the maglev track. He also runs his own astronomy education business, Star Class - Astronomy Education . All space news . Space missions .