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Robotic Nanotech Swarms on Mars... in 2034
Roland Piquepaille writes "NASA is testing a shape-shifting robot called 'TETwalker' for tetrahedral walker, because it looks like a flexible pyramid. It has been tested in the lab and at the McMurdo station in Antarctica to test it under conditions more like those on Mars. Now, it is on the way to be -- really -- miniaturized by using micro- and nano-electro-mechanical systems. These robots will eventually join together to form 'autonomous nanotechnology swarms' (ANTS). When it's done, in about thirty years, these nanotech swarms will 'alter their shape to flow over rocky terrain or to create useful structures like communications antennae and solar sails.' So in 2034, nanotechnology will land on Mars. Read more for other details and references about the TETwalker and the ANTS project."
Reminds me of Michael Chrichton's book Prey..
But I for one welcome our swarming nano-bot Overlords, I just hope they can prep Mars for our arrival.
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In 2034, we send the nanobots to Mars. In 2054 they return: as giant tripods lasering cities into smoking rubbles. Unstoppable, except by the daring-do of Tom Cruise. Either that, or they evolve into blonde sexbots.
Don't blame Durga. I voted for Centauri.
Look at the group's (who are behind this effort) web site.
If this is the best web site they can put together I give this less than 0% chance of working.
"reality has a well-known liberal bias" - Steven Colbert