An Elegant Weapon

No longer content to simplify the science of night vision and hybrid cars, HowStuffWorks.com is covering the fictional. The lightsaber receives the site's techie-to-layman treatment in a quick guide that can help you distinguish between a blade arc tip and a diatium power cell. Despite the fact that only George Lucas knows for sure, this commentary does not take its responsibility lightly - including warnings to youngsters like "never look down the barrel of a lightsaber, even if you are sure it is in safe mode." A full schematic and exploration of the interior provides more talk about adjusting crystals than the annual Om Festival, while the article closes with a photo insert demonstrating alternative usages for the blade, such as hedge trimming and reheating coffee. It's a must-read for your final far, far away comedown. (http://www.electronics.howstuffworks.com/lightsaber.htm)