endearing holograms

Transporter beams have been a theme in more than a few sci-fi movies and shows, although I guess Star Trek is most famous for it, and the saying “Beam me up, Scotty” has of course become a household phrase.

Realistically, however, the technology required for such a feat is beyond the reach of any current technology today, even remotely. Indeed, Star Trek has pushed science to its limits in many fields, presenting seemingly impossible challenges such as warp drives, replicators, transporters, and scanners that instantly cure disease and injury.

But there are many other marvels of technology that are within our reach and are sure to radically alter the way we live and interact with one another. Some things we’re sitting on and just don’t know what to do yet.

One great wonder that is clearly in our possession is the hologram. In fact, surprisingly, it has been around for quite some time. A hologram is, of course, a replica of a real object made up of reflective laser beams, though its main drawback now is its telltale “glow.” And if you haven’t thought about it yet, yes, it is possible to make holograms of people and take video chat to a whole new level.

But it’s even more than what you see because as technology develops, holograms will look absolutely real. Two holographic people will be able to meet in a virtual environment and feel the same as if they were together.

Well, almost, the problem is that Star Trek replicator technology that so far leaves us clueless. Unless things really change, you won’t be able to hold or feel a hologram or even shake their hand. So for now, we may be visiting distant loved ones and doing business in distant lands anyway, but there will be no substitute for the real thing.