Why on Earth would it take 5+ years to build & launch a weather satellite? Seems like they could use the plans for the older sats (whilst using modern component equivalents). It shouldn't take multi-billions to build. Maybe we need an X-prize for weather satellites.

Except that eps 1-3 are more akin to revisionist history - I seriously doubt Lucas's intent back in the 70's was for Obi to fake not knowing R2. I think he added that in so he could stick them in all of the prequels. Kinda like Chewie being in there. Why for again?!