Satellites can now orbit the Earth with the power of magnetic levitation, thanks to the development of a new motor system. Researchers at Celeroton, a spin-off of high-speed motor company ETH Zurich, have found an alternative to the traditional reaction wheel motor system that previously powered satellites in space. Thanks to magnets, the new motor has numerous advantages — including being both ultra-fast and ultra-tiny — that make it attractive for use in small satellites. Existing Reaction Wheel Systems Reaction wheels are a type of flywheel used in satellites to help orient the satellite in space. While reaction wheels don’t propel the satellite through space itself, they are a key component of keeping telescopes like the Kepler pointed at a star. In fact, it was the failure of two reaction wheels aboard the Kepler telescope that caused the spacecraft to malfunction in 2013. In existing systems, reaction wheels are usually mounted on ball bearings, which tend to wear down relatively quickly. Furthermore, ball bearings are not always precise, potentially leading to reduced positioning accuracy in satellites and affecting their overall performance. The Power of Magnetic Levitation Researchers have been developing a high-speed reaction wheel motor that harnesses the power of magnetic levitation and, as a result, may help increase the performance of space satellites. The drive system in this new magnetic motor is small enough to be an ideal development for smaller satellites while still being able to achieve a speedy 150,000 RPMs per second, comparably faster than previous non-magnetic motor models. Not only is it faster, the “floating motor” also reduces friction caused by the vibration of ball bearings, which can lead to the motor wearing out. The lack of friction enables the reaction wheel to move smoothly even without lubrication, allowing it to be operated in a vacuum, making it perfect for use in space. Will magnetic motors revolutionize the orbit of satellites to help them discover more about our solar system? It certainly seems that way. Motors play a crucial part in the performance of satellites that can lead to better performing, more reliable technology than ever. Motors aren’t the only way that magnets are used in space travel and study. Learn more about the ways that magnets are playing a key role in space exploration.