DARPA are at it again. This time our favourite architects of military weird are funding quite successful research to remotely control a rhinoceros beetle.
Researchers at the university controlled the movement of beetle wings and some other parts using radio signals sent to the six electrodes on its brain and muscles. They equipped the beetle with a module incorporating a circuit to send signals to the electrodes, wireless circuit, microcontroller and battery. The university has so far succeeded in several experiments of electrically controlling insects, but it used a radio control system this time.
For what purpose does the university conduct such a research? Considering the fact that the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) of the US is funding the research, it may be intended for military purposes.
Commenting on this point, the university said that the technology can be utilized for peaceful purposes as well. In fact, the radio-controlled beetle can be useful in places that are too narrow or dangerous for a human to enter and for many other purposes.
I’m doubting there will be peaceful purposes involved. I’m expecting weaponized scorpions and spiders going into combat situations controlled by an army of griefers. Horrible
LINK (Tech On)
