In the latest edition of The Prototype, we delve into the exciting news of a new lunar mission awarded to Firefly Aerospace by NASA. This mission, slated for 2028, will see Firefly’s Blue Ghost cargo lander deliver six scientific experiments to the Gruithuisen Domes on the Moon, shedding light on Lunar geology. This is just one of the four contracts Firefly has received from NASA for Artemis lunar missions, showcasing the company’s growing role in space exploration.
Additionally, Firefly’s first Moon mission for NASA is set to launch in January 2025, aiming to study surface conditions at Mare Crisium in preparation for future crewed missions. The company’s innovative approach to space exploration is making waves in the industry, and we can’t wait to see the results of their upcoming missions.
On the robotics front, T-Robotics is revolutionizing the way robots are programmed in factories. By developing a software layer called ActGPT, the company allows users to train robots for new tasks through conversations, eliminating the need for coding knowledge. With a recent $5.4 million investment seed round and a partnership with robotics company ABB, T-Robotics is set to make waves in the industrial robotics sector.
In a fascinating discovery, researchers in South Korea have created tiny magnetic robots that mimic the behavior of ants in swarms. These cube-shaped robots can work together to perform tasks like lifting heavy objects and navigating water, showcasing the potential of swarm robotics in various applications.
In other news, NASA’s next crewed launch has been delayed, with astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore set to stay on the International Space Station longer than expected. Meanwhile, Gameto, a startup recognized for its innovative IVF technology, celebrated the first birth facilitated by its technology in Brazil.
From the latest in fusion power plants to advancements in sunscreen technology, the world of science and technology is buzzing with exciting developments. Stay tuned for more updates in the next edition of The Prototype.