From Fiction to Reality: 5 ‘Star Wars’ Technologies That Now Exist in Real Life

“Star Wars” is one of the most profitable franchises that has ever existed. The story of “Star Wars” managed to win over a legion of fans back in 1977, and continues to this day with plots passed down from generation to generation.

However, there is one detail that will surprise many people from now on. As we approach the 50th anniversary of the release of the first film, did you know that “Star Wars” brought inspiration to the real world?

That’s right, thanks to some objects seen in the films, back in the 1970s, scientists were able to develop new technologies.

Check out five items that seemed very far away, but are now becoming completely real thanks to “Star Wars”.

1. Bionic prosthetics

During a battle with Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker ends up losing part of his arm and gains a bionic hand to replace it. However, this isn’t just a movie thing, you know?

This is because this type of prosthesis is becoming more and more common, helping those without limbs to lead a slightly more normal life.

One of the most recognized on the market is the Icelandic company Össur. The prosthetics made by the company are capable of reproducing natural movements and providing more autonomy and a healthy life for the user.

2. Helper robots

Even though they are not the same as C-3PO and R2D2, humans can already say that they have their own version of robot helpers. Of course, every “Star Wars” fan’s dream is to see one of the two most famous prototypes walking around the house and communicating with their owners in a natural way.

But until that happens, you can opt for robots that help you clean, such as robot vacuum cleaners. In addition, companies like Boston Dynamics are studying how to structure humanoid-looking robots that can help humans perform certain tasks.

3. Lightsabers

Okay, this might seem like the most interesting item on the list, but you still can’t go out and fight with a real lightsaber. However, the precision cutting of these powerful weapons from “Star Wars” provided great inspiration for scientists, who used their precision cutting to create a laser that can be used in surgeries.

The idea is to replace the scalpel and provide even more precise and focused assistance to the doctor during surgeries.

Additionally, Disney itself is working on ideas to create a real lightsaber, but not for the purpose you are thinking of. In fact, it is to bring more immersion into the “Star Wars” universe within the company’s parks.

4. War robots

In the franchise, we see the use of large droids to face enemies in battle. An army full of robots is used in “Star Wars” for grand clashes. However, in real life, scientists are getting close to this as well.

This is because, for example, Russia is betting on a prototype war robot that looks more like a dog. Called the M-81, it is capable of moving quickly and firing rockets with extreme precision.

5. Laser weapons

Finally, inspired by the Death Star, the most feared and deadly ship in the “Star Wars” universe, we have laser weapons. For those who don’t remember, the ship has a deadly laser, which leaves everyone quite intimidated when it appears, since it is also larger than many planets.

Now, in real life, the United States Navy has managed to create a laser weapon that, through heat, can destroy enemy objects, such as drones. Another point that differentiates real-life laser weapons from those in “Star Wars” is that the ones in real life are completely invisible.