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This paper proposes a novel electromagnetic separation system for the small spherical satellite Q-SAT, which is developed by Tsinghua University. Q-SAT was successfully launched on August 6, 2020 and works well now. Q-SAT requires the separation system no pollution, no impact, multi-point synchronous release and repeatable test. In order to meet these requirements, an electromagnetic separation method is proposed and the system is designed. The system consists of bearing structure, a pair of locking and release mechanism, four ejection mechanism and a drive power. The scheme of separation system can be summarized as "two locks, four ejections". The key to system is the lock and release mechanism using ball-lock principle driven by electromagnets. The analytical relationship of the mechanism driving force is given. How to balance the contradiction between lock and release, which is a problem bring by the system, is discussed. The prototype is made. The verification tests are fully carried out including function, vibration, shock, coldness and velocity measurement. The test results show that the system satisfies the launching requirement. The reliability of the system was proven by the successful separation. Systems based on the same electromagnetic separation method could be widely used on other satellites or payloads in the future. • A novel separation method for a small satellite based on electromagnetic mechanism is proposed. • An electromagnetic separation system is developed for the small spherical satellite Q-SAT based on the method. • The separation system has the characteristics of no impact, no pollution, low cost, repeatable test on the ground and high synchronization. • The separation system is fully verified by test and flight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]