The translation apparatus comprises an elongate track, an elongate fixed member and a stage. The fixed member extends parallel to the track in a fixed lengthwise position relative to the track. The stage is mounted on the track and is capable of movement along the track. The stage comprises a motive force generator, a rotatable member and a rotary brake. The motive force generator is operable to move the stage along the track. The rotatable member is coupled with the fixed member in a manner that converts motion of the stage along the track into rotation of the rotatable member. The rotary brake is selectively operable to apply a braking torque to the rotatable member. The coupling between the rotatable member and the fixed member converts the braking torque applied to the rotatable member into a braking force applied to the stage.