Abstract: An improved electromagnetic actuator apparatus comprising a plurality of circular concentric tubes of varying length arranged in length order nested about one another from shortest to longest. Solenoid coil assemblies are attached to each tube so that magnetic circuits are formed between adjacent solenoid coil assemblies attached to adjacent tubes. Stops are attached to each tube at the end opposite from the solenoid coil assemblies. One of the shortest tubes is connected to a frame by a positive motion stop in one direction. A return spring connects to a frame on one end and to a carriage attachment member which slides about the shortest concentric tube on the other end. Selective electric excitation of individual solenoid coil assemblies causes translation of said carriage attachment member. The return spring carries the means for carriage attachment back to a rest position when electrical excitation is removed.