A flying superconducting magnet and cryostat for magnetic suspension of wind-tunnel models

The quality of aerodynamic tests on aircraft or missile models in wind tunnels is improved by magnetically suspending these models, thus avoiding the intrusion of mechanical supports. The article describes a new approach, in which a superconducting solenoid is carried within the model in place of the conventional ferromagnetic core. The potential advantages, the philosophy and details of the design of a prototype, and some experiences in its use are outlined. (author)