When electromagnetic propulsion was first demonstrated more than a century ago, it inspired science fiction dreams of rocket-less space launches, magnetic levitation (maglev) vehicles and super guns.
Many years later, electromagnetic propulsion, powered by electricity and magnetism rather than fiery chemical reaction, is a reality though not yet ready for government or commercial production. However, with a $5 million grant from the Department of Defense, scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology and several partnering institutions are helping to bring the technology from research to practical use.