The science behind Star Trek technobabble

This post is part of Science of Sci-Fi, Mashable's ongoing series dissecting the science (or lack of science) in our favorite sci-fi movies, TV shows, and books.

Star Wars is all action. You know, X-wings and lightsabers and fully armed and operational battle stations. 

Star Trek — at least, the original series, The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, and Voyager — was less ... let's say, explosive. There were a lot of sensor readings. Also, sensible debates. Several episodes centered around academic conferences.

SEE ALSO: Why Star Trek has never topped 'The Wrath of Khan'

That's why I love it. The Star Trek franchise isn't about being handy with a laser pistol. It's about the power and promise of science, even if the actual science makes no sense. To that end, the writers perfected the art of technobabble — you know, dialogue that sounds scientific when uttered over a control panel but really doesn't mean much.  Read more...

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