The Gecko has an amazing ability to grip to different surfaces, even glass, by using millions of miniscule bristles on its feet.
That technology has now been adapted to make better plasters that could even replace surgical stitches and staples.
Physics of superheroes
PopSci is running an excellent series on the Physics of Superheroes.
Climbing robots
Researchers working for USA’s DARPA have created RiSE, a robot that can climb a whole variety of different surfaces.
Flames in space
Everyone knows that hot air rises; candle flames point up.
But what if there’s no “up”?
In space, flames form tiny balls, and can break apart and move around!
Powered by knees
Max Donelan at Canada’s Simon Fraser University has developed a system that attaches to the knees of the wearer and provides about 5W of power, enough to power an iPod and speakers.
Unfortunately this means that if you stop walking, so does your iPod.