http://www.space.com/8917-star-wars-changed-world.html
Along with the massive pop culture influence Star Wars holds, this article argues that this hyperreal science-fantasy is shaping several current technological trends, including a miniature ‘Death Star’ that targets malaria-carrying mosquitoes. This is an excellent example of the tangible effects that the hyperreal has on the world, further muddying the line of what we consider reality.