Are there any Retractable Lightsabers?

Good or terrible news?

Well. We can obtain our ideal retractable plasma lightsabers in the upcoming years, which is terrific news. However, a lot of work remains to be done to make the goal a reality.

However, we cannot ignore something. For the time being at least, the production of retractable lightsabers is not entirely prohibited. Disney Imagineers has been developing one since 2018 by employing advanced engineering techniques. A magnificent appearance even occurred later at the start of this year!

Right now. Right now.

We must not get ahead of ourselves. Let's get to the unpleasant news.

The look I referred to?

The moment of truth!

Yes, Regarding that look.

At South by Southwest (SXSW), a tech, film, and music festival, the Disney Parks and Resorts director made a stunning appearance. Josh D'Amaro brandished a lightsaber that could be drawn back. He was holding a silver hilt that abruptly sprang to life, revealing a neon blue sword with authentic Star Wars noises.

Josh D'Amaro discussed the improvements they had made to the Star Wars attraction. The audience gasped and oohed in amazement. Many Star Wars enthusiasts witnessed the realization of their vision of a fantastic, realistic device.

"I work at the most awesome job in the world." D'Amaro addressed the crowd with pride.

Expert Working?

Following that, other professionals turned to Twitter to describe how the retractable blade operated.

According to the patent, Michael R., The retractable blade's fundamentals are straightforward and mechanical. The flexible LEDs are supposed to be concealed in the hilt after being rolled. The light blade grows to reveal a genuine blade when the button is pressed, activating the tapes.

The gadget's blade body consists of two long plastic semi-cylinders rolled perpendicular to one another. This produces small, moderately sized material cylinders that may be set on two spools in the hilt. The patent provided an explanation together with the product demonstration.

But when it's time to shine, how does the blade retract? The blade's internal motor unrolls the light. They are tucked away in a cylindrical alignment. It opens up directly into the air. The blade lights also retract in the same manner.

However,

The hitch is that the display only lasted a short while. It will disappoint you to learn that Disney has no immediate plans to use the retractable lightsabers in Disney Parks.

Disney had already developed an idea similar to this one. A presentation identical to this was given at the Star Wars: Galactic Star cruiser Hotel back in 2021. The retractable lightsabers were made for a specific purpose and restricted use. They were exclusive to Star Wars actors and certain other individuals.

Josh D'Amaro sounded more assured and pleased with the retractable invention in reference to the latest progress. Holding the lightsaber, he waved it around as if it would not shatter when struck by light.

This gives me the impression that Disney Imagineers are working hard to create a real lightsaber. As of right now, in 2023, they have no plans to use the retractable lightsaber that is on display publicly.

An actual plasma blade that can slash through metal gates and droids and deflect blocks is still a long way off!

Okay but…Only Disney?

Few attempts to create a real-life retractable Star Wars lightsaber have proven successful outside of Disney attractions.

The problem is that high-energy technology that can withstand temperatures of more than 500 to 700 degrees Celsius is required to create a true retractable lightsaber. That's a significant amount of labor, in addition to the costs involved.

The closest anyone has come is Alex Burkan, a YouTuber. He set a record when he created a real-life retractable plasma lightsaber that continuously produced a one-meter-long plasma blade for thirty seconds.

His philosophy centers on the utilization of electrolyzes that draw energy from hydrogen and oxygen in the environment. Without the assistance of a device, the gas is automatically compressed, successfully creating a thin, plasma-blade-like light in the air.

For the blade to survive longer, you need a strong energy supply, and batteries are not the best option for this. Therefore, there is still more work to be done here.

In the End

We can't wait to see what Disney attractions will be available in the years to come. I know from experience and enthusiasm that many Star Wars enthusiasts, like me, are prepared to pay to have a taste of this incredible technology. But there's still a long way to go.

LaserPointerWorld offers incredible Star Wars props and replicas until then.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a real retractable lightsaber?

Real retractable lightsabers require a powerful energy source and stability at temperatures above 700 degrees Celsius. Not to mention the additional costs. Currently, there are no retractable lightsabers available.

Is The Disney Lightsaber Real?

Josh D'Amaro's use of an actual lightsaber on stage in Austin made it feel authentic. It was incredibly lifelike and sounded much like the lightsabers from Star Wars. But Disney attractions don't plan to make these lightsabers available to the general public.

Are Neopixel lightsabers retractable?

LaserPointerWorld sells reproductions with retractable blade capabilities. Despite their differences, reproductions offer comparable features to retractable blades and a plethora of personalization choices!

How much do real retractable lightsabers cost?

An original lightsaber costs more than $200, but there are numerous alternatives. Disney: Star Wars Galaxy sold retractable lightsabers at one point, but only to a select few.

How does a retractable Lightsaber work?

It works by unfolding a light strip that can be folded from the handle. Upon pushing the hilt button, the motor within the hilt is triggered.