DARPA Robotics Challenge

“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.

Who will take top prize for creating the world’s most advanced robot? The Road to the DARPA Challenge chronicles the intense competition and collaboration that’s fueling the biggest robotic showdown on the planet. At stake for the teams -- a $2 million dollar prize.

Profile of Team ViGIR, which placed 10th in 2013. ViGIR is programming an “Atlas” robot named “Florian” from Boston Dynamics, recently acquired by Google. Its humanoid design gives it the edge in performing human tasks in human environments. But will the team have time complete the programming?

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.