Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Schmidt Ocean Institute Advances R/V Falkor (too)’s Mapping Capabilities
The Schmidt Ocean Institute has successfully mapped an impressive 2 million square kilometers of seafloor, a vast area comparable to the size of Greenland. This achievement was announced recently as part of the institute's ongoing efforts to enhance underwater exploration. In a bid to improve the capabilities of its research vessel, R/V Falkor (too), the institute implemented two significant upgrades this year. These enhancements included a complete redesign of the ship's bow and the integration of advanced Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), recognized as the gold standard in underwater mapping technology. These developments are expected to significantly bolster the institute's ability to conduct detailed and efficient seafloor mapping, furthering its mission to explore and understand the ocean's depths.
schmidt ocean institute (soi) r/v falkor (too) mapping capabilities kongsberg hugin superior auv
Increased throughput in narrow aisle warehouse
Locus Robotics has announced the successful implementation of its robotics solution at the logistics center of third-party logistics provider ITG, located near Munich Airport. This deployment aims to enhance throughput in the narrow aisle warehouse, showcasing the effectiveness of Locus Robotics' technology in optimizing logistics operations. The initiative reflects the growing demand for automation in supply chain management, as companies seek to improve efficiency and productivity in their warehousing processes.
Allgemein Automation Fördertechnik & Handling Lagerlogistik & Materialfluss Mobile Robotik
'For All Mankind' star Wrenn Schmidt on her character's journey from NASA's mission control to the slammer (interview)
A recent report highlights the transformative experiences of inmates in correctional facilities, particularly focusing on one individual who has developed a newfound appreciation for Dolly Parton's music. The report suggests that the extended time spent in jail has allowed her to explore various forms of entertainment and self-reflection, leading to significant personal growth. This change is emblematic of how incarceration can provide individuals with the opportunity to engage with different cultural influences and reassess their lives. The insights were shared in a discussion about the broader implications of prison life on personal development, emphasizing the potential for rehabilitation through exposure to diverse experiences.
Space Movies & Shows Entertainment
World’s Largest Animal Migration and Ocean Gyres Play Critical Roles in Global Carbon Cycle
Scientists have successfully concluded two significant research expeditions in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean aimed at enhancing the understanding of the biological pump, a crucial process for carbon transfer from the ocean's surface to its depths, which plays a key role in climate regulation. These cruises, conducted between January and April, were supported by the Schmidt Ocean Institute and the Schmidt Sciences’ Ocean Biogeochemistry Virtual Institute (OBVI), utilizing the research vessel Falkor (too). The expeditions sought to address critical knowledge gaps regarding how this natural mechanism functions, thereby contributing to broader efforts in climate science and oceanography.
animal migration ocean gyres global carbon cycle schmidt ocean institute schmidt sciences ocean biogeochemistry virtual institute (obvi)
Pioneering Study Unites Physics, Geology and Biology in Argentina’s Submarine Canyons
An Argentinian-led scientific expedition aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) has successfully deployed advanced technologies to gather comprehensive data on the Malvinas ocean current and its interaction with submarine canyons. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of the region's plankton blooms, which are crucial for sustaining Argentina’s rich marine biodiversity and fishing industry. Notably, these extensive plankton blooms are significant enough to be detected from space. The expedition underscores the importance of marine research in preserving the ecological balance and supporting local economies reliant on fishing.
schmidt ocean institute r/v falkor (too) ocean science servicio de hidrografía naval conicet
First High-Tech Exploration of Argentina’s Mar del Plata Canyon Inspires Millions
An expedition led by Argentine scientists aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, R/V Falkor (too), has captivated nearly 4 million viewers over the past three weeks through live video feeds from the deep seafloor. The initiative has drawn a predominantly Argentine audience, who have engaged with the broadcast from various locations, including homes, classrooms, and public spaces like grocery stores and gyms. The live stream showcased the expedition's discoveries, featuring remarkable deep-sea creatures such as shimmering squids, pink lobsters, and a starfish reminiscent of the popular character Patrick Star from SpongeBob SquarePants. This unique opportunity not only highlights the wonders of the deep ocean but also aims to inspire a greater appreciation for marine science and conservation among the public.
exploration mar del plata canyon schmidt ocean institute soi remotely operated vehicle (rov) subastian
Genesis AI Launches Unique Non-Human Robot Eno Backed by Former Google CEO
Genesis AI, a French startup backed by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, has introduced Eno, a non-humanoid robot engineered for practical use in various industries. Unveiled recently, Eno distinguishes itself from traditional humanoid robots with its wheeled base and foldable panels, emphasizing mobility and adaptability for tasks in manufacturing and logistics. The startup's mission is to transform robotic design by prioritizing functionality over human-like features, aiming to enhance efficiency in real-world applications.
Robotics AI Industrial Automation Non-Humanoid Robots
Rough Surface Gripper for Handling
Schmalz has introduced the FSGA-78 CF balg suction gripper, designed to adapt effectively to structured materials, ensuring a secure grip. This innovative solution addresses the challenges posed by rough surfaces, enhancing operational efficiency in various industrial applications. The product aims to improve handling processes by providing reliable performance even in demanding environments.
Allgemein Greifer & Werkzeuge Robotik
XELA Robotics Deepens U.S. Market Commitment with Plug and Play Investment and New Sensor Capabilities to be Introduced at the Robotics Summit and Expo in Boston
XELA Robotics is intensifying its commitment to the U.S. market with the introduction of two significant enhancements to its uSkin® sensor family, designed in response to feedback from its expanding American customer base. The announcement coincides with a strategic investment from Plug and Play, a leading innovation platform based in Silicon Valley, and the company's participation in the Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston on May 27-28, 2026. The first enhancement involves magnetic interference compensation, which effectively eliminates complex magnetic interference, crucial for handling metals in industrial settings. The second improvement introduces CAN FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate), a high-speed communication protocol that allows for more sensor modules to operate simultaneously without compromising data transfer rates. These advancements aim to enhance the performance of robotic applications, providing faster and more reliable measurements. Alexander Schmitz, CEO of XELA Robotics, emphasized the importance of the U.S. market and stated that these enhancements directly address customer needs. The new sensors will be available for immediate ordering, with initial deliveries scheduled for May 2026, while the magnetic interference compensation feature is expected to launch in the third quarter of the year. XELA Robotics will showcase these innovations at the upcoming Robotics Summit & Expo and ICRA 2026 in Vienna, Austria, from June 1-5.
New Coral Gardens and Hydrothermal Vents Found in the Icy Depths of the Remote South Sandwich Islands
An international team of scientists recently completed a 35-day deep-sea expedition to the South Sandwich Islands, one of the most remote island chains globally, aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, Falkor (too). During this groundbreaking Ocean Census Flagship expedition, the researchers observed thriving polar ecosystems, uncovered new hydrothermal vents, and documented coral gardens, along with numerous suspected new species. The team also found evidence of explosive volcanism in one of the coldest and most isolated submarine trenches on the planet. Notably, this expedition marked the first confirmed sighting of a juvenile colossal squid, highlighting the rich biodiversity and unexplored wonders of these deep-sea environments.
coral gardens hydrothermal vents
First Confirmed Footage of a Colossal Squid—and it’s a Baby!
An international team of scientists aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel Falkor (too) made a groundbreaking discovery by filming a juvenile colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) in its natural habitat for the first time. The 30-centimeter squid was recorded at a depth of 600 meters (1,968 feet) using the Institute’s remotely operated vehicle, SuBastian. This significant sighting took place on March 9 during an expedition near the South Sandwich Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. The event coincides with the 100th anniversary of the colossal squid's identification and formal naming, marking a milestone in marine biology and deep-sea exploration.
The End Of Overbought?
U.S. equities are experiencing a downturn as the S&P 500 is set to conclude a nine-week winning streak. On Friday, the index recorded a 2.25% decline, marking its largest single-day drop since October 10, 2025. The technology sector, which has been a significant driver of the recent market rally, is facing a sharp pullback, with projections indicating a 5% decline for the day. This downturn comes as the market corrects from overbought conditions that have persisted for several weeks. The shift in investor sentiment reflects broader concerns about market sustainability and potential economic factors influencing stock performance.
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