Large gap magnetic suspension system with superconducting coils

A magnetic suspension system comprising:

• a lift magnet comprising a first superconducting coil and a second superconducting coil arranged about a common vertical axis and being energized with counter rotating currents to generate a magnetic field gradient which lifts an object above said magnet, said first and said second coils producing a potential energy surface above said magnet with a depression on said vertical axis for urging said object under forces of gravity and magnetism to a stable location at the depression;
• an assembly of control coils disposed about said vertical axis for adjusting orientation of said object;
• first energizing means coupled to said first and said second superconducting coils for operating said first and said second superconducting coils in a steady state mode;
• and
• second energizing means for energizing said control coils to adjust said magnetic field gradient for directing said object to the axis and adjusting orientation and position of said object.