skyhooks actually "exist", at least in the star wars universe. in Shadows of the Empire, skyhooks are mentioned frequently. they are basically sub-orbital "space stations" within the atmosphere of a planet. they appear to hang suspended in the sky. they serve no true functional purpose, as they are merely super-expensive airborne mansions only the rich can afford. a symbol of prestige and wealth, they are somewhat equal to a "summer home" or a palace in "our" 21st century society. informal 'competitions' between owners ensue over new technologies, gardens, just about anything that showed you were richer than the other guy.