Debuting in 1966, the original Star Trek series introduced audiences to the phaser, a sleek and versatile weapon of the future. This weapon was a technological leap from the traditional firearms of the time, projecting beams of energy instead of bullets.
First seen in the pilot episode of the original Star Trek series, phasers quickly became a central element of the show. Phasers are pure energy weapons that project energy similar to the light beam emitted by a laser. They have a pulsating nature that ‘phases’ to interact with the wave pattern of any molecular form. Phasers have adjustable settings which determine their effectiveness and the amount of damage that can be inflicted.
Stun - this incapacitates a target without causing lasting harm. It works by temporality disrupting the nervous system;
Heat - this setting delivers intense thermal energy;
Disintegrate - reserved for extreme situations. It breaks down the molecular structure of the target, effectively destroying it;
Continuous Beam - this setting is useful for cutting through physical barriers or welding materials together.
There are three types of handheld phasers on the original Star Trek series. The type 1 is the smallest, and it can be concealed on a belt under a uniform shirt. It has limited range, power and energy charge. The type 2 phaser is a combination of the type 1 phaser and an attached pistol mount. The handle of the mount contains a power pack that significantly increases the range, power and energy of the weapon. This type of phaser is visibly worn on a waist belt. The type 3 phaser is a more powerful phaser rifle providing even greater range and effectiveness. In emergencies, phasers can be set to overload, causing them to explode, inflicting damage within fifty meters.
One of the most important aspects of the phaser is the use of the stun setting. Instead of resorting to deadly force, crew members can incapacitate advisories with a non-lethal energy burst. This has resonated with viewers and became an representation of the show's commitment to exploring peaceful solutions without having to resort to the use of lethal force.
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