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Roboticists reverse engineer zebrafish navigation

Scientists have replicated the neural circuitry that allows zebrafish to react to visual stimuli and maintain their position in flowing water. The research, published in Science Robotics, used simulations and robots to study embodiment, or how the body affects perception, in larval zebrafish.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2025

Spider-inspired robot crawls the gut to deliver precision therapy

A team of researchers has developed a tiny, spider-inspired robot that can navigate the digestive system with ease, delivering therapy precisely where it's needed. The soft robot overcomes challenges faced by traditional endoscopes, showcasing its adaptability in traversing complex environments.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 20, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Microscopic DNA ‘flowers’ could deliver medicine exactly where it’s needed

Researchers created microscopic DNA 'flowers' that can change shape and behavior in response to their surroundings. These tiny robots, made from special crystals formed by combining DNA and inorganic materials, can perform tasks on their own, from delivering medicine to cleaning up pollution.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 20, 2025

A lightweight and rapid bidirectional search algorithm

The LiteRBS algorithm outperforms classical algorithms like A* and Bidirectional A*, scaling well even in large or dense maps. It achieves fast and memory-efficient pathfinding through an aggressive bidirectional forward search with a reserve-queue fallback strategy.

SourceELSP·JournalRobot Learning·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

From stiff to soft in a snap

Researchers developed a method to trigger magnetic jamming in materials using wireless magnetic fields, enabling reversible and programmable clumping. This technique allows for the creation of structures that can assemble, stiffen, relax, or break apart under magnetic control.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2025

Programming robots with rubber bands

A team of engineers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences designed a proof-of-concept walking robot using only four moving parts connected by rubber bands and powered by one motor. The robot can find its way through mazes, avoid obstacles, and sort objects by mass without electronic control systems.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2025

Hanyang University ERICA researcher reveals psychological pathways shaping behavior of customer witnessing robot mistreatment

A recent study reveals that the response to witnessing robot mistreatment depends on factors such as the robot's humanlike design and the observer's moral identity. Anthropomorphism influences empathy, encouraging customers to treat robots with dignity, while moral identity plays a crucial role in shaping behavioral contagion.

SourceHanyang University Research Strategy Planning Team·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2025

‘Metabots’ shapeshift from flat sheets into hundreds of structures

Researchers at North Carolina State University created a class of robots called metabots that can change shape and adapt to different environments. The devices can execute various actions despite having no motor or being made of a single flat material.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Toward autonomous nano-manipulation robots: Integrated SEM systems enable atomic-scale fabrication

Researchers develop autonomous nano-robotic systems that utilize scanning electron microscopy for real-time visual feedback, enabling high-precision manipulation of nano-objects. The integration of machine learning-enhanced vision algorithms and novel actuation techniques facilitates adaptive, perception-driven atomic engineering.

SourceJournal Center of Harbin Institute of Technology·JournalSmartBot·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 13, 2025

Accounting for uncertainty to help engineers design complex systems

MIT researchers developed a new framework that helps engineers design complex systems explicitly accounting for uncertainty. The framework allows them to model the performance tradeoffs of a device with many interconnected parts, each of which could behave in unpredictable ways. This approach can help engineers develop complex systems ...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 2, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

The importance of a leader–follower relationship for performing tasks

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that pairs outperformed individuals in a robotic arm-transporting task when roles naturally emerged. Role specialization was key to superior performance, rather than paired interaction. The research has implications for human-robot collaboration and rehabilitation settings.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalThe International Journal of Robotics Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2025

Move over, ants: This tiny amphibious soft robot is the new master of cargo

A groundbreaking soft robot has been engineered to perceive and respond to multiple environmental cues simultaneously. Weighing just 8 milligrams, it can carry a payload 2.5 times its own body weight over complex terrain, showcasing impressive agility and strength.

SourceJournal Center of Harbin Institute of Technology·JournalSmartBot·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2025
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

UN agency for digital technologies teams with will.i.am and Google to train young AI and robotics pioneers in Africa

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has launched an initiative to bring artificial intelligence and robotics training to students across Africa. The programme combines hands-on AI and robotics training for young people in underserved communities, with a focus on reaching girls and other underrepresented groups.

SourceInternational Telecommunication Union·DateSep 24, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Robots map chemical reaction “hyperspaces” to unlock complex networks

Researchers at CARS create detailed maps of chemical reactivity, discovering regions of unexpected outcomes and reconstructing intricate reaction networks. This new understanding enables control over the formation of different major products from a set of starting materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2025

Frasky, a new robot for vineyard applications

Frasky, developed by IIT, combines robotics and AI to address environmental sustainability and labor shortages in agriculture. The robot can navigate autonomously, map its surroundings, and apply selective treatments to grape clusters with precision.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2025

How many ways can an octopus flex its supple arms? Now we know

Researchers cataloged octopus arm movements in six different locations, revealing diverse behaviors such as foraging and locomotion. The study provides insights into the complex motions of octopus arms, which are guided by sensory organs and can perform a variety of tasks, including manipulating objects.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateSep 11, 2025

Google.org backs the Wits MIND Institute with US$1M boost

The Wits MIND Institute has received a $1 million boost from Google.org, enabling it to drive next-generation breakthroughs in natural and artificial intelligence. The partnership aims to advance the scientific understanding of both natural and artificial intelligence, foster breakthrough research and technological innovation.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·DateSep 3, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

AI-equipped aerial robots help to track and model wildfire smoke

Researchers at the University of Minnesota developed AI-guided aerial robots to detect, track and analyze wildfire smoke plumes. The technology provides high-resolution data collection across large areas at a lower cost than satellite-based tools, enabling more accurate computer models for air quality predictions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateSep 2, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Pusan National University scientists develop self-deploying material for next-gen robotics

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel, multi-resin dispensing process for fiber-reinforced polymer fabrication, enabling precise patterning of mechanical properties within a monolithic structure. The breakthrough composite material combines flexibility and strength for advanced robotic applications.

SourcePusan National University·JournalComposites Part B Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2025

SEOULTECH researchers develop revolutionary 3D-printed smart materials create high-performance pressure sensors for wearables

The Seoul National University of Science and Technology has developed a novel 3D AMM-based tactile sensing platform that offers high-performance pressure sensing. The technology leverages auxetic metamaterials to enhance sensitivity, stability, and scalability.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2025

Woven metamaterials inspired by baskets for stiff, resilient robots

Researchers at the University of Michigan created woven metamaterials that return to their original shape after repeated compressions, while continuous sheets permanently deform. The structures demonstrated high stiffness and resilience, making them suitable for applications like soft robotics, car parts and architectural components.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review·DateAug 28, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Smarter robot planning for the real world

Vasile's research aims to map and model an agent's capabilities, particularly in motion, manipulation, and perception, to reliably predict their behavior. The goal is to use this understanding to plan effectively for large teams of agents.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 26, 2025

Meet Rainbow: the multi-robot lab racing to discover the next quantum dots

Researchers at North Carolina State University unveiled Rainbow, a self-driving laboratory that autonomously discovers high-performance quantum dots. The system combines advanced robotics and AI to conduct up to 1,000 experiments per day, accelerating materials discovery.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2025

Soft skin, sharp senses: New robotic ‘touch’ sees danger before it hits

Researchers developed ProTac, a novel vision-based soft sensing skin for robots, enabling real-time environmental perception and dual-mode sensing. The system can detect approaching objects from multiple angles and recognize multiple touch points with high accuracy.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateAug 22, 2025

With human feedback, AI-driven robots learn tasks better and faster

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed an AI-powered training method called Human-in-the-Loop Sample Efficient Robotic Reinforcement Learning (HiL-SERL) that enables robots to perform complicated tasks with precision and speed. With human feedback, robots learn from demonstrations and real-world attempts, achieving a 100% success rate in...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Researchers make better magnets – at a lower cost

A new magnet manufacturing process has been developed that produces strong permanent magnets quickly and uses less energy and is less expensive. The technique, called friction stir consolidation, eliminates porosity in the magnetic material and reduces oxidation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2025

A wearable robot that learns

A wearable robot has been upgraded to provide personalized assistance to ALS and stroke patients. The device uses machine learning and a physics-based model to adapt to an individual user's movements, offering more nuanced help with daily tasks.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2025

Novel 3D printing technique creates hydrogels that mimic natural tissues

Researchers developed a novel 3D printing technique called IPS 3DP to create personalized implants with specific mechanobiological properties. The method enables the creation of structurally complex hydrogels with hierarchical microstructures and strain-stiffening behavior, paving the way for advanced biomedical applications.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateAug 18, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

World's first MPI-trackable alginate-based microrobot: breakthrough platform enables targeted stimulation, position tracking, and cell delivery without cameras or radiation

Researchers developed an alginate-based microrobot that can be tracked using Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) and performs real-time localization, selective thermal therapy, and cell delivery. The robot is powered by a single magnetic actuation system independent of conventional medical imaging devices.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 12, 2025

Tiny robots use sound to self-organize into intelligent groups

A team of scientists has developed microrobots that use sound waves to coordinate into large swarms exhibiting intelligent-like behavior. The swarms can navigate tight spaces and re-form themselves, making them suitable for tasks like cleaning up pollution and delivering drugs directly to a problem area.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2025

Catalyst-free ionogel turns bamboo to 11-MPa “super-skin” for IoT sensors

Researchers have developed a catalyst-free ionogel made from cellulose and an ionic liquid that exhibits exceptional strength and conductivity, outperforming synthetic analogues. The gel is also eco-friendly and low-cost, making it suitable for fully compostable high-performance electronics.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2025

A patch for the heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich create a novel three-dimensional heart patch for intraventricular implantation, integrating into existing heart tissue. The RCPatch combines a fine mesh, 3D-printed scaffold, and hydrogel with living cells to promote complete repair and regeneration of damaged heart tissue.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 8, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Muscle-inspired sheet-like robot navigates the tightest spaces

Developed by a research team at POSTECH, the robot uses human muscle proteins as inspiration to generate strong force while navigating through tight spaces. The technology has potential applications in various fields, including medical settings, industrial environments, home cleaning, and caregiving robots.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Kavraki elected to European Academy of Sciences

Lydia Kavraki, a pioneering researcher in robotics and AI, has been elected to the European Academy of Sciences. Her work on physical AI, transforming robotics and biomedicine, and leadership at Rice University's Ken Kennedy Institute have earned her this prestigious honor.

SourceRice University·DateJul 29, 2025

How tiny fossils are leading to smarter robots

Researchers create a technique to model organic objects, creating photorealistic 3D images of complex shapes for autonomous sorting. This method improves robotic systems that sort microscopic marine fossils used in climate research.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMarine Micropaleontology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 29, 2025

‘Bone-ified muscles’ could be robots’ next flex

Researchers have developed soft artificial muscles that provide the performance and mechanical properties required for building robotic musculoskeletal systems. The new muscles can be battery-powered, enabling robots to move more naturally and safely in unstructured environments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 27, 2025

Robotic space rovers keep getting stuck. UW engineers have figured out why

Researchers found that Earth's gravity pulls down on sand more strongly than previously thought, making it more rigid and reducing the likelihood of getting stuck. This discovery highlights the importance of physics-based simulation in analyzing rover mobility on granular soil.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Field Robotics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 25, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

AI-assisted sorting, other new technologies could improve plastic recycling

Researchers highlight the potential of solvent-based recycling and AI-assisted sorting to recycle complex plastics. However, the study emphasizes that replacing fossil-based plastics with biobased alternatives poses significant challenges, requiring comprehensive approaches and life cycle assessments.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 18, 2025