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UCONN Techs Are Creating Remote-Controlled Cockroaches

As a charismatic man once said, science is not about why, it’s about why not. Why create cyborg cockroaches? Why not? Scientists at the University of Connecticut have developed a small electronic device that fits onto a cockroach’s back and wires into its brain. The idea is to send electrical signals to the part of roach’s brain that handles spatial awareness and control its movements. Yes, that’s right; they’ve invented remote-controlled cockroaches.

This research is of interest to the US Department of Defense, who believe this technology could be used to aid in search and rescue operations. It’s not specified exactly how, but presumably, a cyber-roach could be deployed with a camera to sneak through cramped spaces a human can’t reach to find survivors. There’s still some kinks to work out, as the remote signals sent gradually lose effectiveness, so no word on when the research will reach completion. Though, they more than likely won’t make a big announcement for it whenever it is. Can you imagine the commercials for cyber-roaches? I can’t.

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