Imagine the IT training needed to successfully manage a space station the size of a small moon. That could be one of the many reasons why the White House has said that it will not build a Death Star a la “Star Wars,” despite an online petition in favor of the endeavor.
The argument made for building a United States Death Star centered on the supposed economic boom – in addition to the power to make entire planets go boom – that it would yield.
“By focusing our defense resources into a space-superiority platform and weapon system such as a Death Star, the government can spur job creation in the fields of construction, engineering, space exploration, and more, and strengthen our national defense,” according to the petition, which received more than 34,000 signatures prompting a response from the Obama Administration.
In the response on the White House’s official website, administration space and science advisor Paul Shawcross shot down the hopes and dreams of U.S. citizens with a love for the film universe created by George Lucas. According to Shawcross’ reasoning, the cost of building a Death Star would be roughly $850 quadrillion, not to mention the fact that the U.S. is opposed to blowing up planets as well as spending tax dollars on space stations that can be destroyed by a one-man starship.
While the petition and the official response it prompted has surely amused many people, let’s not lose sight of the innovative spirit behind the idea. Industries are revolutionized by forward-thinking individuals who push the boundaries of what is thought possible. If a small business owner has a vision that others doubt, finding a technology consulting company that wants to help make that vision a reality could be the first step in creating a paradigm-shifting technology or product.
Something to think about the next time you have an idea that seems far-fetched, but just might work if given the right push.
