Like most people out there, I grew up on “Star Wars,” and to this day still regress to a state of childlike wonder every time a new trailer or photo emerges from the set of the latest film. It’s something I can’t wait to share with my kids when that day comes.

Now that we are less than a year away from “The Force Awakens” a lot of talk has moved on to “Episode VIII,” which will be directed by Rian Johnson (“Looper”).  Not much is known about “Epsiode VIII,” and we probably won’t get too much info until the December release of “The Force Awakens.”

In the meantime, though, Rian Johnson may have solved a “Star Wars” controversy that has plagued me for years; one that crosses my mind every time I watch the films.

Take a look at the pictures below:

Notice how Darth Vader’s TIE Advanced x1 fires off green lasers, yet Vader and other Sith Lords use red lightsabers? Throughout the entire Imperial Fleet the TIE fighters and Star Destroyers fire green lasers. Hell, even the Death Star does!

But when you look at the X-Wing Starfighters used by the Rebel Alliance they shoot red/orange lasers and Luke Skywalker (a Jedi and force against the Empire) uses a green lightsaber.

My question: WHY?!

Surely the Galactic Empire would appear more menacing if their entire fleet was outfitted with red laser cannons. The Death Star’s fatal blow to Alderaan would’ve been even more terrifying for the people below.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who has had this question. Fortunately, Rian Johnson had the answer.

@thesportshero Tax purposes.

— Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) March 27, 2015

Well, there you have it. In the end, it all comes down to money. As tyrannical as the Empire is, they are still fiscally responsible. Tough, but fair. Perhaps Johnson will address these tax issues in “Episode VIII.”

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” opens December 18, 2015. Although, if you are reading this article, you probably already knew that.

Colin J. Liotta is the co-founder and Editor-in-chief of The Sports Hero. His favorite lightsaber color is blue. You can follow him on Twitter @TheSportsHero.