Researchers from Oregon State University conducted five-day field tests of four-legged robot dogs in White Sands National Park, simulating extreme and unpredictable conditions similar to those on Mars.
These robotic dogs are being developed as autonomous scouts and astronaut partners, with the ability to map terrain, suggest optimal sampling locations, and support human researchers. Thanks to their articulated legs, they can assess ground stability in real time and avoid dangerous or unstable terrain, reducing risks for both robots and astronauts.
In addition to movement, the robot dogs collect key mechanical and geoscientific data, with the long-term goal of one day working alongside humans, rovers, and other robotic systems on Mars. The research builds on earlier lunar-analogue tests on Mount Hood and is part of NASA’s broader Moon to Mars program.
Why does this matter? For the first time, a robot dog managed to move with full autonomy, independently choosing its routes while scientists monitored from a control center. This simulates how Earth- and Mars-based teams could collaborate, with robot dogs serving as pioneers in terrains yet to be explored by humans.
In brief: Tech World Highlights
- California-based biotech company Exelixis, specializing in anti-cancer therapies, is laying off 130 workers, consolidating operations, and closing its Pennsylvania facility.
- Novo Nordisk secured global rights to Replicate Bioscience’s self-replicating RNA technology in a deal worth up to $550 million, targeting new therapies for obesity and diabetes.
- Finland launched the world’s largest industrial sand battery in Pornainen, replacing a woodchip plant and aiming to cut local heating emissions by up to 70%.
- California reached a historic agreement with Uber and Lyft, granting drivers the right to unionize while maintaining their status as independent contractors.
- Anthropic now requires all Claude users to decide by September 28 whether or not their conversations can be used for AI model training.
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