US robotics researchers deployed snake-like robots to search for earthquake survivors in collapsed buildings across Venezuela after an urgent request from local authorities.
Researchers traveled to Venezuela with snakebots—flexible, serpentine robots designed to navigate tight spaces and debris—to assist in rescue operations following the earthquake. The robots can squeeze through gaps and rubble where human rescuers cannot safely access, potentially locating trapped survivors in the wreckage of destroyed structures.
Snakebots use cameras and sensors to transmit real-time footage to operators, allowing rescue teams to identify survivors and plan extraction efforts. The technology has been tested in previous disaster scenarios but saw active deployment in Venezuela's earthquake response.
The rapid deployment highlights how specialized robotics can supplement traditional rescue methods. Rescue teams face significant challenges navigating unstable debris fields, making remote-operated robots particularly valuable for initial search and assessment operations.
Details on the specific number of survivors located or the extent of the robot deployment's impact remain limited.
Wing is scaling its drone delivery service through a partnership with Walmart, bringing the platform to seven additional U.S. cities. The expansion signals growing commercial viability for autonomous delivery.
SpaceX's 13th Starship test flight successfully deployed 20 next-generation V3 Starlink satellites, but the mission encountered another booster re-ignition failure during recovery operations.
College students need portable devices with strong battery life and reasonable prices. We've tested hundreds of laptops to identify the top performers.