Towards a Low Level Accelerometer

A preliminary investigation is made into a low level accelerometer incorporating a diamagnetically supported magnet inside a superconducting tube. Low level control forces are examined and the magnetic force is found most suitable. Light pressure exerts a measurable force and is suggested for calibration. The feasibility of closing a feedback loop around the magnet is demonstrated. The accelerometer shows much promise for application below 10 (sup -6)g and the performance results obtained so far are limited only by displacement detector sensitivity and noisy environment.