EXPERIMENTAL AND THEORETICAL-STUDIES OF LEVITATED QUANTUM FLUIDS

We describe the opportunities for improved scientific understanding an d technical manipulation of cryogenic fluids, particularly molecular h ydrogen, by the use of carefully designed magnetic field configuration s produced with assemblies of permanent magnets. We discuss the levita tion of hydrogen in order to perfect technical means for handling this and other cryogenic fluids. The development of the techniques to be e xplored here provide extraordinary opportunities for improved methods for handling rocket fuels and cryogenic fluids in low gravity environm ents. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics. [S1063-777X(98)01602-8].