#earthhack Cornell University researchers have made a 'Star Trek' science fiction concept a reality by creating biohybrid robots controlled by king oyster mushroom mycelium.
Source: Cornell University - Robot powered by King Mushroom mycelium
These robots operate through the mycelium's responsiveness to environmental stimuli. The robust network of the king oyster mushroom allows for precise, adaptable movements, making these robots ideal for complex tasks requiring environmental sensitivity, such as agricultural monitoring or ecosystem assessments.
Source: Public Domain King Mushrooms
These innovative devices use the mycelium’s natural electrical signals to sense light and adapt their movements, integrating biology with technology in a manner reminiscent of the 'Star Trek: Discovery' character Astromycologist, Paul Stamets, named after a real-life mycologist, Paul Stamets.
Real life mycologist Paul Stamets shown left below with Star Trek actor Anthony Rapp, whose character 'developed spore drive technology'.
Mirroring advancements from the realm of 'Star Trek,' where science often mirrors nature, the potential applications of these biohybrid robots extend to reducing agricultural chemicals, enhancing crop productivity, and even exploring hazardous environments unsuitable for traditional robotics.
Supporting this breakthrough is research by US based, Chad A. Mirkin from Northwestern University, where his team developed a method to bind nanoscale components using fungal hyphae intertwined with gold particles, showcasing the potential of integrating fungal systems with nanotechnology.
Source: reddit.com
Cornell's developmental findings are a significant shift towards sustainable and bio-integrated technology. Inspired by both the natural world and the visionary science of 'Star Trek,' these robots offer a glimpse into a future where technology harmoniously coexists with biological systems, pushing the boundaries of what is scientifically and imaginatively possible.
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