A kugel fountain (also called a “floating” sphere fountain) is a water feature or sculpture where a sphere sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal, and is supported by aquaplaning on a thin film of water. Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket, creating a mechanical fluid bearing that is nearly frictionless.
The term kugel is from the German word for ball or sphere.
Kugel fountains can be found all over the world. Many are at popular tourist destinations, such as science museums, shopping centers and gardens. This one is located in Feldkirch (Austria).