Star Wars exists in the world as science fiction, perhaps as “soft” science fiction that deviates from established science when desired for story or choking Imperial officers. Nevertheless, it’s affected whole generations’ understanding of outer space with its blend of fantasy and starships. On May the Fourth, Discover takes a look at the science behind this pop culture phenomenon to celebrate Star Wars Day.
Where has the mega-franchise gotten science right, and where has it done a Kessel Run around reality? Here are six eye-opening facts to explain the science behind Star Wars Day.
1. Lightsabers
Could such a weapon exist in our mundane world filled with gas-fueled cars and laser pointers? It would have to meet certain standards: visible at a distance and capable of slicing through metal but not other lightsaber blades. This rules out lasers, which would only be visible in a fine mist or fog. And since the photons (the light) would have boson properties, the “blades” would pass right through each other during any climactic confrontations.
