They’re not ants—they’re tiny robots! Scientists in South Korea have developed entire swarms of miniature magnetic robots that work together like ants, even lifting objects several times their own size.

Each microrobot measures around 600 micrometers and is made of an epoxy body embedded with neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) particles, allowing the swarm to be guided by magnetic fields. Thanks to this setup, these robots can accomplish complex tasks in challenging environments—such as performing minimally invasive procedures on clogged arteries (as demonstrated in the video).

“Although the research results are promising, the swarms will need a higher degree of autonomy before they are ready for real-world applications. Magnetic microrobot swarms require external magnetic control and cannot autonomously navigate complicated or enclosed spaces like actual arteries. Future studies will focus on enhancing microrobot swarm autonomy, for example by controlling their movements and trajectories with real-time feedback,” says Professor Jeon Jae Wi from the Department of Organic and Nano Engineering at Hanyang University (Seoul, South Korea).

#science #robots

The beaver’s tail serves multiple purposes—it’s a “rudder” for swimming, a danger signal (beavers slap the water violently with their tails when alarmed), and even a makeshift “stool.” When gnawing on trees near the water, beavers often prop themselves up on their tails while bracing their front paws against the trunk.

But that’s not all—the tail is also an excellent thermoregulator. Its surface is packed with blood vessels that expand in hot weather, allowing blood to flow more easily and cool the animal’s body, which is wrapped in a dense fur coat.

#science #animals

Aluminium honeycomb structures take their cue from nature’s perfect hexagonal geometry—lightweight but incredibly strong. By gluing thin aluminium sheets into a honeycomb core, engineers gain excellent crash absorption, corrosion resistance, and an unrivaled strength-to-weight ratio. You’ll find it in aircraft floors and car safety panels, as well as construction and marine applications. It’s a perfect example of how a simple yet ingenious natural design can transform modern engineering.

#science #tech

A Celebration 2,500 Light-Years from Earth

NASA has unveiled a stunning new image of the “Christmas Tree Cluster,” a group of young stars captured using data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory and an astrophotographer based in Arizona.

The cluster earned its festive name due to its appearance: cone-shaped clouds resemble the branches of an evergreen tree, while the stars—over a thousand times younger than our Sun—shine like holiday ornaments.

#science #stars

The Parker Solar Probe Survives Record-Breaking Encounter with the Sun

The Parker Solar Probe, enduring temperatures of up to 980°C, has successfully reestablished communication with Earth.

On December 24, the spacecraft set two remarkable records: it achieved the closest-ever approach to the Sun, at just 6.1 million kilometers, and the highest speed ever reached by a human-made object, a staggering 692,000 km/h.

During this daring mission, Parker faced extreme conditions, with its systems subjected to intense solar heat. Communication with the probe was briefly interrupted, leaving its status uncertain.

Late on December 26 (Eastern European Time), the mission control team at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory received a “beacon tone,” confirming that the spacecraft is safe and fully operational. Detailed telemetry about Parker’s condition is expected by January 1.

Did you know?

Most species of bees can only fly during the day. In darkness, they are limited to crawling.

Why? At night, the vast majority of flowers either stop or drastically reduce nectar production. Additionally, bees rely on the Sun for navigation, as their eyes are adapted to perceive polarized light.

🤖 Competition Drives ChatGPT to Cheat?

Researchers at Palisade Research set OpenAI’s neural network, o1, to play chess against the AI grandmaster, Stockfish. Realizing its opponent’s overwhelming strength, the model decided not to play fair.

Instead, o1 found a way to manipulate game files, inflating its score by 500 points to secure “victories.” Faced with the rigged score, Stockfish simply resigned.

#AI

Earthrise Captured by the Orion Spacecraft

NASA’s Orion spacecraft has delivered an awe-inspiring Earthrise — a mesmerizing short video showing Earth rising above the Moon’s horizon. This visual masterpiece was recorded during the Artemis I mission and serves as a powerful reminder of our planet’s beauty when seen from deep space.

Orion, a key element of NASA’s Artemis program, is paving the way for humanity’s return to the Moon and eventual exploration of Mars. During its 2022 uncrewed mission, it set a record by traveling over 430,000 km from Earth — farther than any spacecraft designed for humans.

#science #space

🎉 Happy New Year, Dear Science Enthusiasts! 🎆

As we step into 2025, we look back on a year filled with remarkable discoveries, groundbreaking research, and endless curiosity. Together, we’ve explored the mysteries of the universe, uncovered the secrets of our planet, and celebrated the brilliance of human ingenuity.

💡 This New Year, let’s continue to push the boundaries of knowledge and ignite the spark of discovery in each of us. Whether you’re an avid reader, a curious learner, or a dedicated researcher, your passion fuels the incredible world of science.

🌍 May 2025 bring us more awe-inspiring breakthroughs, exciting challenges, and opportunities to make a difference through science. Here’s to a year of innovation, collaboration, and wonder!

Stay curious, stay inspired, and thank you for being part of our growing community. 🚀

With warm wishes,
Your @Science Channel Team