The galaxy-hunting robots: Machines that will probe secrets of the universe to start tests next month

In a lab in California, ten robots are gearing up for a project that might solve some of the biggest mysteries in our universe. Scientists in Berkeley plan to use 5,000 galaxy-seeking robots to create the most detailed 3D map of the universe yet. Now the scaled-down prototype system is about to be tested. DESI robots (right) will poke out from 10 wedge-shaped'petals' that will be fitted together in a Focal Plate Assembly. Over its lifetime, the ends of the fibre-optic cables will be turned almost 200,000 times.