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(Jon sez:) 
The script as originally written called for Benjamin's nanotechnological
space suit to collapse into the helmet. When sketching the character design
Mark changed that to collapsing into a bracelet, which is infinitely cooler.
Which brings us to the topic of nanotechnology in general. Nanotechnology (a nascent engineering discipline in which machines are built at a molecular scale) is finally being realized with such projects as the Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies and the National Nanotechnology Initiative. In the future, nanotech may change society as much as have computers. Note that I said "may change society." Nanotechnology is only taking its first baby steps, and it is not yet clear how much nanotech can actually do. Questions of powering the tiny machines, dissipating heat, and other engineering hurdles are still being addressed by scientists and engineers. This doesn't stop me from positing a nanotech space suit, though. |
(Mark sez:) 
If you want to learn more about the potential of the new science of nanotechnology, K. Eric Drexler's classic Engines of Creation is now on the Web in its entirety. I've linked to it in the past, but it just seems to get timelier every day.
I'd also like to apologize for the somewhat dubious quality of the CG work today. All I can say in my own defense is hey, look over there!!! [runs] |
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