On the volcanic planet Mustafar, Anakin duels with Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, ends up nearly submerged in lava and needs to be turned into a cyborg to survive. Not long ago, in our very own galaxy, Stanford Earth discussed the science of Star Wars with these experts on planetary formation, processes and habitability. Sonia Tikoo-Schantz, an assistant professor of geophysics, uses paleomagnetism and fundamental rock magnetism as tools to investigate problems in the planetary sciences. Assistant professor of geological sciences Mathieu Lapôtre focuses on the physics behind sedimentary and geomorphic processes that shape planetary surfaces. Laura Schaefer, an assistant professor of geological sciences, studies planetary atmospheres and their formation. Assistant professor of geophysics Dustin Schroeder works on the use of ice-penetrating radar in observing and understanding the interaction of ice and water in the solar system.

Beyond the plot, there are plenty of questions we can ask about the science: How did those planets form? Could they exist in our universe? Could Star Wars really happen?Īt the School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences (Stanford Earth), researchers use geological and geophysical techniques to both investigate Earth and explore other planetary bodies. 20 release of the final installment of the Skywalker saga, The Rise of Skywalker, questions abound about the fate of the inhabitants of that faraway galaxy. From Wookiees and Ewoks to lightsabers and droids, the Star Wars movies have captured the imaginations of generations of fans. Space discoveries are in the news on a nearly weekly basis – but they may not leave an impression as impactful as the legend of Star Wars.

Star wars planetary forces