Turning science fiction into science fact

In 1977, Carrie Fisher appeared as Princess Leia in cinemas as a small light projection asking Obi-Wan for help. After that moment, holograms have appeared in no less than eight television series, 18 video game franchises and 21 film franchises.

Since the first hologram appeared in film in the 1956 film Forbidden Planet, sci-fi fans and physicists alike have become fixated on the idea of making them a reality. In the last 20 years, there has been somewhat of a technological revolution resulting in huge steps forward to making that area of Star Wars at least, a reality.

What is a hologram?

Simply put, holograms are light patterns which have been captured so that when they are moved, or looked at from a different angle, they appear 3D – much like those seen in sci-fi. The simplest holograms are more common than you would think, holograms can be seen everywhere, including in a wallet. On all credit and debit cards, there is a small silver image, usually of a bird, which when looked at from different angles, appears to move. This is what a hologram is in its simplest form.

Do you need a droid to make a hologram?

Despite what Star Wars would have the audience believe, you do not need your own R2D2 or C-3PO to make a hologram. Basic holograms like those mentioned above, are actually relatively simple to form. They can be made by anyone with just a light source, special photographic material and laboratory conditions. The world may be a ways off from a “make your own permanent hologram” kit but in terms of holograms in the real world, it is a start.

Can I be a hologram like Princess Leia?

In terms of a free standing hologram, projected out a droid, the answer is no. However, this does not mean moving holograms are impossible. For anyone who remembers the 2012 BBC Children in Need special, you will recall Chris Moyles reuniting Morecambe and Wise in the form of holograms on stage. During the show, two 3D images of the comedy duo appeared on stage dancing beside the comedian and radio presenter, which looked very similar to the one you saw on Star Wars of Princess Leia. You may have noticed the background was completely black though, this was to allow the holograms to be projected onto the screen. These holograms would have had to have been made by making a series of still holograms and running them after one another to make it appear they were moving. Much like how rudimental films were made - expect with more impressive technology.

Are we anywhere near making Star Wars holograms?

In short, as of yet, we cannot produce holograms like the ones you may see on Star Wars, simply because free standing holograms are an impossibility. However, the BBC did begin to develop technology which creates the illusion of a free standing hologram and there is constantly more and more research being done into the subject. Although the traditional idea of a hologram may be a while away for us mere humans, we are still surrounded by holographic imaging all the time – credit cards, head up displays and even barcode scanners all use holographic technology. So, sci-fi fans don’t lose hope just yet, soon you too will be able to ask Obi-Wan for help as a small blue figure. It’s just a shame we can’t all look like Carrie Fisher.

I made a YouTube video about holograms too! 

Watch it here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oE7w6_7xil4