Tech

Lightsaber-like plasma beam antenna is tuned by laser

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 22/10/2026, 21:43:25 UTC.

Briefings

Scientists at North Carolina State University have engineered an antenna using a plasma beam rather than solid metal, a concept inspired by Star Wars. This breakthrough involves tuning the plasma beam's shape via a laser to function as an antenna. The study was published in October 2026, marking a significant shift in antenna design from traditional solid structures to dynamic plasma forms.

Key points

• A plasma beam antenna was successfully created by scientists at North Carolina State University, replacing solid metal structures with a dynamic plasma beam.
• The antenna's shape is dynamically tuned using a laser, allowing it to adapt its form for optimal performance.

Context

Antennas typically consist of solid metal rods or printed patterns, but this research introduces a plasma-based solution inspired by Star Wars imagery. The method uses laser tuning to shape the plasma beam, offering a novel approach to telecommunications technology.

Limitations

The study is a preprint from October 2026, so the findings are preliminary. No specific performance metrics, dates, or named researchers are provided in the evidence.

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