NASA continues to lead the race to explore the solar system, focusing on icy worlds with the potential for habitability. Following the launch of the Europa Clipper spacecraft in October 2024, scientists are developing the SWIM (Sensing With Independent Micro-swimmers) project, a concept that combines robotic innovation and advanced science.
NASA’s underwater robots explore underwater worlds
The SWIM project proposes using swarms of autonomous underwater robots , each about the size of a cell phone. These units, delivered by a cryobot capable of melting ice sheets , will analyze chemical and thermal parameters in subsurface oceans. Initial tests in swimming pools and computer simulations have demonstrated the potential of these technologies to detect signs of life.
Each robot is equipped with advanced sensors capable of measuring temperature, pressure and chemical composition in extreme environments. In addition, a novel acoustic communication system will allow data transmission and coordination between units. The efficiency and autonomy of the swarm have been validated through multiple tests at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory .
Testing swimming robots to explore oceans on icy moons. Source: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
While the project is still in development, its applications are not limited to space missions . In the future, these robots could contribute to the study of terrestrial oceans and measurements under polar ice. For now, the team led by Ethan Schaler continues to refine this visionary technology that could transform how we search for life beyond Earth.
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Source and photo: NASA
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