Abstract: A passive superconductor bearing system and process for supporting a rotating member uses permanent magnets in the bore of the rotating member, stationary permanent magnets which encircle the shaft, superconducting materials at the shaft ends, and a duct and pinhole outlet which directs a flow of gas towards one shaft end. The stationary permanent magnets interact with the permanent magnets in the shaft to radially position the shaft in the center of the stationary permanent magnets due to radial repulsive forces between poles of the same polarity. In order to enhance stability, a gas jet is directed towards one end of the shaft to counteract the unbalancing axial force on the shaft caused by permanent magnet interaction. The superconductor-magnet interaction generates a restoring force as the shaft is transversely displaced in any direction away from its equilibrium position. The interaction does not assist shaft rotation, but adds to the stiffness and damping of the bearing system.