Robots, journeys into space, and flying cars: Which visions out of science fiction movies have become reality? The classics of the genre in a “reality check”.

Thanks to a navigation algorithm, drones are learning to autonomously perform acrobatic maneuvers. Using simulations, the autonomous aircraft are trained to become faster, more agile, and more efficient.

In the Swiss Smart Factory, the factory of the future is within reach. Here, Swiss industry can find advice on how to tackle the digital transformation. Head of Research Dominic Gorecky knows: There are still many hurdles to overcome on the path towards Industry 4.0.

An international team led by researchers at NTU in Singapore has developed a universal connector that allows stretchable devices to be assembled easily and quickly using the Lego principle.

Speak instead of typing – nowadays, communicating with computers often involves language bots. In his book “Dialogue Robots”, Armin Sieber analyzes the widespread dissemination of these bots. In this interview he describes the advantages – but also urges policymakers and the public to be aware of the dangers.

Swarms of bees as models for drones in construction: Empa has tested drones that work in teams under human control to 3D print materials for building or repairing structures.

The number of devices transmitting data, for example in transport logistics, will increase sharply in the future. But the amount of batteries needed for this would have an enormous impact on the environment. A compostable mini-capacitor could solve the problem.

Microplastics in the sea are a danger to plants, animals and humans. To better assess the impact of these mini-particles, an EU project will measure their size and concentration off the Norwegian coast from 2023. A sensor developed in Switzerland will play a crucial role.