Abstract
A high Tc superconducting levitation bearing driven by an optically switched solenoid is described. The bearing uses flux pinning in the new high Tc superconductors for stability. A simple liquid nitrogen supply system is described that greatly improves the ease with which high Tc superconductors can be maintained at 77 K for extended periods of time in small styrofoam dishes. A force versus height curve is given and is used to determine the design limits of the levitation bearing. Alternate motor designs are discussed.