A viral video in China shows what appears to be a high-powered “laser cannon” slicing through tree branches with stunning precision and speed. Wherever the laser points, branches fall instantly — fast, accurate, and powerful.

According to the developers behind the laser device, the basic principle is similar to using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight on a single point to burn paper. But this tool, known as a laser obstacle remover, is far more advanced. It contains a dynamic focusing system that allows it to precisely control where the laser focuses in real time.

Here’s how it works: the ground-based device locks onto its target and fires a laser beam that instantly generates high heat. This heat is enough to slice through branches or other obstructions in seconds. It can accurately hit a twig from 500 meters away, and even punch through a 10-millimeter-thick steel plate from a distance of 100 meters — in just five minutes.

This technology is proving especially useful during summer, when fast-growing trees can interfere with power lines. Overgrown branches not only increase the risk of fire, but they can also trip the circuits, disrupting electricity for households. With tools like the laser obstacle remover, power companies can now clear these hazards more efficiently and safely.

To put it in perspective: cutting down a tree with a 10-centimeter diameter used to take hours with traditional methods. With this laser device, it takes just a couple of minutes — no chainsaws, no climbing.

The laser tool isn’t just for trimming trees. It can also remove dangling objects like kites stuck on high-voltage lines. Sending a person up to retrieve them is dangerous and usually requires shutting off the power — something costly and inconvenient for nearby residents. The laser remover offers a safer and more efficient alternative.

One fun fact: the laser beam used is actually invisible to the human eye. So, to make the video more dramatic, sound and visual effects were added during post-production.

Depending on its power output, each unit costs between 200,000 to 600,000 yuan (roughly $28,000 to $83,000). Pricey, yes — but for safety and efficiency, many say it’s worth it.

Editor: LQQ