Because geckos treat an obstacle like any other surface and crawl right over it, gecko robots might be useful in search and rescue missions. Currently, Autumn is working on sending his geckos into outer space to test gecko adhesion under zero-gravity conditions. The diverse gecko, with its 850 species, has a worldwide range. Most of the species are nocturnal, effective climbers and energy efficient and most species live in the tropics, where extinction is rampant. Almost all have yet to be carefully studied.
Biodiversity represents a library of potential engineering principles.
But extinction is taking the books off the shelf before we get a chance to read them. A team of scientists reports the first direct measurement of the adhesive function that makes it possible for the gecko to master amazing feats. Engineers are using their new knowledge to design tiny robots that may eventually aid search and rescue missions and to create the world s first dry, self-cleaning glue that will work in outer space and underwater. Adhesive mechanisms on gecko feet. Website To learn more about Kellar Autumn or his geckos, you can visit his website.