There are few moments in television history that compare to Luke Skywalker’s first use of his father’s sparkling blue Lightsaber. Star Wars made its first steps toward becoming the renowned franchise it is today from that scenario.
The exquisite and magnificent Lightsaber continues to surprise fans all around the world 42 years later. Every time a new film is released, fans are on the tip of their seats, waiting to see what new lightsabers will appear.
It’s only natural to ask if a real lightsaber could exist in today’s world. Do we have enough scientific and technological understanding to back up this cherished sword?
Let’s take a closer look at the concept.
Is a Real Lightsaber Possible to Create?
A lightsaber is created in the Star Wars universe by putting a kyber crystal into a metal or wood hilt. Depending on the hue of the crystal, it then powers up the sword.
Of course, we don’t yet have the technology to search for kyber crystals in space. That could happen once we’ve thoroughly investigated all of the mysteries of our own Milky Way Galaxy. So, if an actual lightsaber were to be created, how would it be done in a way that is accurate to those used in the Galatic Empire?
There are now two theories about how a rey lightsaber could be created.
Laser-powered lightsabers
A lightsaber’s dazzling brilliance and hue are undeniably similar to that of a laser beam. The saber’s blade emerges from a hand-held hilt, which is similar to how lasers work.
Laser lightsabers, on the other hand, have difficulty.
To begin with, lasers do not have a specific length. They continue to travel until they hit a solid surface. Imagine Luke Skywalker confronting his father on Cloud City with a lightsaber.
Another issue with laser lightsabers is that when they collide, they don’t create a sound. Because lasers aren’t solid, when they differ from another thing, they generate no sound. Imagine a lightsaber battle with mute blades cutting each other in half!
So, even though lightsabers resemble lasers, creating one with laser technology appears to be impossible. Before considering making a laser lightsaber, perhaps we should understand more about lasers and how to contain them.
Plasma Blades for Lightsabers
The usage of a plasma blade in a modern lightsaber is a more practical option.
Everywhere we look, there are examples of plasma. Plasma, for example, is responsible for the brilliance and colour of neon lights.
When the electrons in a gas are stripped away, the resulting light has a different colour depending on the type of gas. Luke’s green Lightsaber might be formed of chlorine plasma, whereas Vader’s crimson Lightsaber could be helium.
Plasma lightsabers, on the other hand, have their own set of issues.
A plasma blade that can cut through steel and cauterize Jedi and Sith limbs, for example, requires a massive power source. A blade with that much power would require about 20 megawatts of power – enough to power 14,000 homes! Power sources the size of a Galatic Empire lightsaber hilt can’t hold that much energy right now.
Plasma blades are also not solid. Imagine lightsaber combat in which the blades of both lightsabers run straight through each other!
Is the Lightsaber still a viable option in the future?
The best hope for a precise lightsaber in the future is if we can learn to manipulate lasers or plasma more effectively. Alternatively, try something completely fresh. Perhaps a mission to a planet rich in kyber crystals?
Nothing is beyond of reach. Imagine how people would have reacted 2,000 years ago to the idea of using electricity to power lights and machines!
If a real Lightsaber exists, how much does it cost?
A gadget known as the Metal Vapor Torch was developed for the US military in 2012. Surprisingly, this lamp resembles a lightsaber in appearance. It has a blazing flame that can instantly cut through inch-thick steel.
The Metal Vapor Torch is a powerful tool. It has a temperature of 2,700 degrees Celsius and can travel at a speed of 1,600 miles per second. Although it lacks the solid blade and changeable colour of a lightsaber, it has raw power comparable to that of a lightsaber.
The Metal Vapor Torch is powered by cartridges that cost roughly $35. The torch itself is priced at $135. Given the similarities in power between the Lightsaber and the Lightsaber, a real lightsaber may cost $170 and $200.
The torch’s cartridge, on the other hand, only provides power for a few seconds. Getting a lightsaber with a constant source of electricity and light may be more expensive.
If a real Lightsaber exists, where can you get one?
A lightsaber is a formidable weapon. It can sever limbs, plough through strong steel, and deflect Force Lightning.
A lightsaber is therefore risky. Due to the extreme heat required to cut through, metal is unlikely to be sold to the general public.
So, if a real lightsaber existed, the best way for Star Wars fans to get their hands on one would be to join the military or the police force in the United States. The Metal Vapor Torch was designed to cut through locks and steel in seconds for police and emergency responders. If a lightsaber were to be produced, one of these institutions would be the finest place to utilize it.
The Lightsaber’s Future
Although plasma tubes and lasers are similar to a lightsaber, they have some severe drawbacks that make creating a real Galatic Empire lightsaber unfeasible today. Who knows, though. Only a few years ago, the notions of flying or computing machines were unthinkable. Lightsabers may become a popular form of entertainment or self-defense in the future.
