Looking for Star Wars-like flight physics

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the use of hypermatter as a fictional element in sci-fi narratives to simulate flight physics in space. Hypermatter provides resistance in a vacuum, allowing spacecraft to maneuver similarly to atmospheric flight, despite lacking gravity. The conversation highlights that while hypermatter is intended to enhance visual appeal during dogfights, it lacks practical value and may complicate combat scenarios. The discussion also touches on the humorous intent behind the physics, acknowledging that audience expectations for realism are low in productions like those from Troma Entertainment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly in relation to gravity and motion.
  • Familiarity with science fiction tropes and narrative techniques.
  • Knowledge of terms like "exotic matter" and "unobtainium" in speculative fiction.
  • Awareness of audience expectations in film and storytelling, especially in the sci-fi genre.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the concept of "exotic matter" in theoretical physics and its implications in science fiction.
  • Research the use of simulated environments in storytelling, particularly in space combat scenarios.
  • Investigate the role of humor and tongue-in-cheek elements in sci-fi narratives.
  • Examine the impact of audience expectations on the portrayal of physics in film, especially in productions by Troma Entertainment.
USEFUL FOR

Writers, filmmakers, and enthusiasts of science fiction who are interested in creating engaging narratives that balance scientific concepts with entertaining storytelling elements.

dbaezner
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I was wondering if I could get a critique of the following pseudo-physics to explain why my sci-fi story includes dogfights in space. I don't want to totally ignore the impossible physics, but I'm looking for something simple. No hardcore sci-fi fan is ever going to buy it anyway. And, yes, it's intended to be somewhat tongue-in-cheek. Thanks, Dirk.Andrew asked, How come you’re able to bank without spinning out of control? There’s no gravity or atmosphere up here?

The entire outer surface of the fighter is coated in hypermatter, Joseph said. It’s an exotic element that provides resistance in a vacuum comparable to the effects of atmospheric flight. A little like flying through mud. It allows ships to bank, pitch, and yaw almost as if they were in the air. No one knows why it works, but it makes for great dogfights.

Is it related to hyperspace?

No. Hyperspace is totally different and was discovered first. Then, whatever nut invented hypermatter probably just thought the name sounded cool.
 
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It uses unobtainium, which is standard.
"Exotic matter" does have a special meaning in physics different from how the character appears to mean.
The material's use is just to make combat "look cool" ... i.e. it has no practical value (and appears to hamper actual nanogravity combat - opening a story possibility where some uncouth uncool degenerate gains an unfair advantage just by not using the stuff)

Since the main point is to look cool - engineers could always just rig jets to simulate the presence of an atmosphere in the ships behavior without the need for unobtainium.
 
dbaezner said:
And, yes, it's intended to be somewhat tongue-in-cheek. Thanks, Dirk.


Andrew​
How come you’re able to bank without spinning out of control? There’s no gravity or atmosphere up here?


Joseph
Due to the fact that this is a Troma Entertainment Production. With Michael Bay set to direct and story by credits to Will Smith. Audience expectation of flow field physics in a near vacuum will be limited to Stephen Hawking and Michio Kaku.​
 

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