New Electromagnetic Launch Technology to Cut Orbital Expenses by 100 Times

Electromagnetic Launch Inc. (EML) has partnered with the Robinson Research Institute of Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand to develop a new form of electromagnetic launch that could reduce orbital launch costs by 100-fold. The partners aim to prove the physics and demonstrate the engineering for a “Quench Launcher,” a non-contact form of electromagnetic launch using a combination of US and New Zealand technology. The current price of reaching low-earth orbit is $1,000 per pound, but estimates show operating costs of $3 per pound to orbit can be achieved with a robust electromagnetic launch system. The Quench Launcher was invented at MIT by Henry Kolm and has been made feasible by recent improvements in high-temperature superconductors and new design innovation. The EML team has designed an approach that uses a series of superconducting rings, much like what is found in an MRI machine, to store and deliver enormous levels of force for repeated launches. EML’s discussions with NASA suggest a first application may be to move raw materials from the surface of the moon to lunar orbit to support missions to Mars, space-based habitats, and solar system exploration.