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In line with our main article today, here’s an incredible time-lapse of various different kinds of mushrooms growing:

Innovation

Robots Powered by Mushrooms

When most people think of robotics, they picture metal, mechanisms, and wires. But in the field of biohybrid robotics, scientists have found a way to control robots using mushrooms.

Researchers at Cornell University have tapped into the electrical impulses carried by mycelia, the root-like network of fungal filaments. These impulses, similar to how neurons control muscles, were mapped onto a circuit board to control the movement of a robotic starfish. The mycelia essentially "command" the robot’s actions.

The study showed that the mycelia can sense their surroundings and send signals to the robot’s motors and valves. This allowed the team to control both a walking soft robot and a wheeled hard one. They even used ultraviolet light to change the robots' movements based on environmental cues.

The goal was to create biohybrid systems without using plant or animal cells. While cells are effective in robotics because they respond to stimuli, using animal cells like mouse muscles raises ethical issues. Plant cells, on the other hand, are slow and fragile, while both animal and plant cells easily die in harsh conditions, leaving the robot useless.

In contrast, mycelium is resilient and easier to maintain. Vickie Webster-Wood, an engineer at Carnegie Mellon University, explained that mycelium-based robots could potentially last longer in challenging environments compared to those using mouse muscle cells.

The concept behind biohybrid robotics is similar to soft robotics, which focuses on creating flexible systems that don’t rely on traditional mechanical or electrical parts. For example, gel bots that expand and contract with magnetic fields could be used inside the human body for medical purposes.

Sports

2024 Singapore Grand Prix

The 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, set to begin on September 20, promises to deliver another thrilling night race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit. Known for its challenging 5.065-kilometer layout and stunning cityscape, the event is one of the most demanding in Formula 1, with tight corners, high humidity, and unpredictable race outcomes. Last year a driver had to end the race early, due to excessive heat.

This year’s race will see top drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris battle for the championship, with qualifying positions being crucial. Beyond the track, the Grand Prix offers a mix of world-class concerts, entertainment, and luxury experiences, attracting fans and celebrities from around the world.

Environment

A Bear-y Funny Moment

A bear thought the hammock behind a mountain home would be a good spot to nap—if only it could get on it.

Courtney Vucekovich was in her kitchen when she spotted the large animal wandering into her yard. The bear spent five minutes struggling to balance on the hammock, and she managed to capture it all on video.

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Mind Stretchers

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With no hands, I draw. With no words, I speak.
My canvas is your window, my art is unique.
What am I?

Answers to yesterday’s Mind Stretchers:

I cover cities and forests, entire countries too.
I can be felt but never touched, and I disappear with a step or two.
What am I? - Fog

Gerry Moore got the correct answer first!

The first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected] or reply to the email.

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured