DARPA Robotics Challenge

An exploration of what is happening at the forefront of the robot revolution. Humanoid robots are being created to meet the increasing worldwide demand for robots with artificial intelligence that can aid humans in rescue efforts and exploration.

“Can robots save lives?” This is the question at the heart of the DARPA Robotics Challenge.  In DRC 101, we embed with the organizers and engineers pushing robots to perform tasks that might someday mean the difference between life and death, and explore the course for this year's event.

The Road to the DARPA Challenge chronicles the intense competition and collaboration that's fuelling the biggest robotic showdown on the planet. A $2 million dollar prize is at stake for the teams.

Profile of Team ViGIR, which placed 10th in 2013. ViGIR is programming an Atlas robot named Florian from Boston Dynamics, recently acquired by Google.

Profile of Carnegie Mellon’s Tartan Rescue team, which placed 3rd in 2013. They’re programming a custom robot, CHIMP, that resembles a monkey, but is able to operate on four legs and roll with treads. It remains a favorite to take home the $2 milllion grand prize.