Mission to the Edge of Space!
The M-BEAM (magnetic bearing for brushless direct current motor in microgravity) project is an experiment about the design and construction of a fully wear and maintenance free brushless DC motor for microgravity. The objective is achieved by a magnetic bearing system stabilizing the rotor. This motor will work free of contact between rotor and stator due to magnetic bearings avoiding any friction on components. The results of the M-BEAM project will show the possibility to replace conventional lubricated bearings, such as they are currently used in space applications of reaction wheels, through these new and innovative magnetic bearings.
"Creativity often consists of merely turning up what is already there."
-Bernice Fitz-Gibbon
