Ever since Marty McFly rode on one in 1989's hit film Back to the Future Part II, fans have dreamed of having their own levitating skateboard, or "hoverboard".

That wish has now come true, as engineers in California have turned the futuristic device into reality.

The Hendo Hoverboard levitates on conductive surfaces. Defying gravity, it floats about an inch above the ground, powered by four disc-shaped magnetic engines.