Study and prototyping of a permanent magnetic suspension for the alignment by gravity of the elevation angle for the next generation lunar reflector experiment

The research is focused on the design of a magnetic suspension employable to achieve Earth-pointing for a space reflector or other devices integrated on a lunar lander or rover deck just utilizing the local gravity. The classical solution is based on heavy and expensive actuators, still representing critical subsystems as their failure might often lead to severe or catastrophic effects on the mission. This proposal is based on a magnetic suspension realized with two small magnetic bearings. They can be contained in a cylinder smaller than 15 mm diameter and 20 mm height and capable of supporting 20 N. After designing, a prototype has been built employing commercially available neodymium permanent magnets. Preliminary results of carrying capacity have been correlated in good agreement both with analytical calculation and finite elements analysis. The study has showed that the goal of 20 N can be attainable. The structure stiffness and carrying load for the accurate alignment of each stator/rotor pack is crucial for the performance of the suspension. The next step is the design and build-up of an upgraded model to be qualified for the mission dynamic loads.