You may be able to fish the drone out if it gets submerged, but most of its electronics will probably have to be replaced. Additionally, drawing inspiration from nature, the drone has a built-in suction cup that allows the robot to attach itself to almost any kind of surface, and maybe hitch a ride on moving objects to conserve precious power. The segments are changed hydraulically, whereas the fish uses muscle contractions, but the end effect is the same in both cases. While attached to a submersible robot, the drone uses only 5% of the power it usually needs for its own propulsion. When it’s attached to moving objects in the air, the drone uses only 2% of its power.

Source: Washington Post May 19, 2022 21:03 UTC