Star Wars Technology

United States
May 28, 2007 11:34pm CST
I've just finished watching "Star Wars Technology" on The History Channel, and I'm wondering about plasma. I don't really understand the principles behind it, but I like it. The very idea that we might be able to create a plasma force field, plasma windows (already achieved in the lab), and plasma engines really excites me! There's something really raw, powerful and mysterious about plasma. But back to the program itself - there were all sorts of technologies highlighted: robotics, biotechnology, holograms, and repulsive force engines. I was quite taken with a particular robot that they did not mention -- I think I've seen her before. I believe she's a Japanese creation that looks nearly human. The person testing her poked her in the cheek and she shuddered! Amazing. Much better looking than MIT's robot. So what do you think? Was the program right when they said that we're closer to Star Wars tech than we think? Are we on the verge of a new platform of technology? What do you think will be first? Here's a link to the show's website: http://www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=Minisite_Generic&content_type_id=54406&display_order=10&mini_id=54078
1 response
scarywhitegirl
@scarywhitegirl (2766)
• United States
29 May 07
We just finished watching that show as well. I was mostly curious to find out how close we are to lightsaber technology. Sadly, it doesn't look like we're very close. As for the robots, I've not heard of the one you're talking about, but I thought that MIT robot was pretty cute. :) I think the most likely developments that Star Wars already showed will be related to prosthetics. There were definitely already a lot of those developments that are already available, but still a ways to go.