Next Generation Technology

Lightsaber

Articles > Lightsaber

When discussing lightsabers, one must first decide what exactly a lightsaber is. It is unlikely we will end up with something that operates exactly like the ones in the movies. Thus, I have put together a list of the most important requirements for a lightsaber:

Produces a tight, visible beam about 3 feet long

Blade is massless, composed of pure energy -- it is generated when the saber is turned on and goes away when the saber is turned off (NOTE: The electrosaber design is an exception to this)

Blade can cut through solid materials (including metals) -- similar to plasma torches, etc.

Blades can block other blades

Blades conduct torque -- you can exert force on one end and it is felt on the other

Blades do not give off excess heat so as to injure the user during normal use

Hilt is about a foot long with no external dependencies (power supplies, etc.) (NOTE: For prototypes it may be necessary to implement an external power supply, such as something that you can put on your back.)

Of course, these are only general guidelines; it may (and probably will) be necessary to sacrifice one or more of these for the first prototypes. Also, this list is somewhat subjective -- I just feel it would allow for more unity and efficiency if everyone knows exactly what we're talking about when we say "lightsaber."