The Science of Philip Pullman's His Dark MaterialsBy: Mary Gribbin, John Gribbin Series: His Dark Materials Philip Pullmans His Dark Materials trilogy is renowned for its mystery and magic. Whats the truth behind it all? Is the golden compass actually based in science? How does the subtle knife cut through anything? Could there be a bomb like the one made with Lyras hair? How do the Gallivespians lodestone resonators really work? And, of course, what are the Dark Materials? Drawing on string theory