Is this the Force device Chinese researchers are looking for?
- Military scientists are experimenting with a prototype that uses magnetic plasma rings to manipulate distant objects in space
- The new approach could be used for satellite recovery, delivery missions and deflecting space debris
In the science fiction universe of Hollywood’s Star Wars, the Jedi are able to use the Force to move objects around without physical contact, a manoeuvre referred to as “Force push” or “Force pull”.
The ability allows the Jedi to levitate themselves or others, and to manipulate objects in more complex ways, such as constructing structures or repairing machinery.
The movie magic has inspired researchers at the National University of Defence Technology in China to bring the fantasy to life.
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Until recently, using magnetic force to control something remotely was considered impractical. The strength of the force decreases rapidly as the distance between the magnetic source and the object it is acting upon increases.