I was chatting with a friend about SciFi hologram technology, and had occasion to look into 3D projection cube that is on Bones. I came across an article which confirmed my suspicions -- while the actual piece of equipment on the show is special effects, the technology itself is based on something that really exists.

I also came across a wired article about the real technology. Given the speed of technology, anyone have a guess as to how long it is between research prototype and affordable consumer products? By next Christmas, y'think?