Ep 12. How to Build a Light Saber

In the twelfth episode of season one of Sci Fi Science, titled "How to Build a Light Saber," host and science fiction expert Dr. Michio Kaku explores the possibility of creating a real-life version of one of the most iconic weapons in sci-fi history: the light saber.

The episode begins with Kaku examining the unique properties of light and how they could potentially be harnessed to create a sword-like weapon capable of slicing through solid objects. He discusses the concepts of plasma and electromagnetic fields, surmising that these elements could be combined in a specific way to generate a blade of pure energy.

To further explore these ideas, Kaku meets with several experts in the fields of plasma physics and electrical engineering. Together, they examine the properties of different gases and how they might be manipulated to create a plasma blade. They also discuss the possibility of using magnetic fields to contain the plasma in a particular shape, forming the iconic straight blade of the light saber.

In addition to examining the scientific principles behind a light saber, Kaku and his team also discuss the practical concerns of building such a weapon. They examine the challenges of powering a plasma blade, as well as the safety concerns of creating a high-energy weapon.

Throughout the episode, Kaku also explores the cultural impact of the light saber, discussing its iconic status within the Star Wars franchise and its influence on science fiction as a whole. He interviews several experts and enthusiasts who have created their own replicas of the weapon and discuss the design choices they made in their own builds.

Towards the end of the episode, Kaku and his team successfully create a rudimentary version of a light saber using a containment tube filled with a plasma of hydrogen and helium gases. They demonstrate the blade's ability to cut through paper and cardboard, but stress that the experimental weapon is still far from being a practical or safe technology.

Overall, "How to Build a Light Saber" is an entertaining and educational exploration of the science behind one of the most beloved weapons in popular culture. Kaku and his team present complex scientific concepts in an accessible way, making the episode engaging for both casual viewers and science enthusiasts alike.