Z-90 hardlight shield



The Z-90 Photonic Coalescence Emitter/Aegis, more commonly known as the Hardlight Shield, is a Forerunner anti-personnel shielding system. Like other examples of hard light technology, it works by using a photon emitter to fuse light particles into a dissipative barrier.

Hardlight shields are frequently employed by the ground forces of the mechanical Prometheans, with Watchers providing different types of shield for Knight and Crawlers in combat. This technology has been adapted for use with the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor, allowing Spartans to use the shield to protect themselves from incoming fire. While using the Hardlight Shield, a Spartan is unable to use weapons, and the MJOLNIR's energy shields are prevented from recharging until the Hardlight Shield dissipates.

Trivia
The designation "Aegis" is likely a reference to the Aegis, a shield carried by several divine figures in Greek Mythology.

The concept of the Hardlight Shield is very similar to the Jackal's Point Defense Gauntlet. It is possible that the Covenant reverse engineered the Forerunner tech for this purpose.

List of appearances

 * Halo 4
 * Halo: Spartan Assault