This Soft Robot Stingray Just Explored the Deepest Point in the Ocean

While all eyes were on the dramatic descent of NASA's Perseverance rover last month, a team sent a robot into another alien world, one closer to home: the deep sea. With its towering undersea mountains, dramatic geological features, and unique creatures--many of which remain mysterious--the deep sea is the last uncharted environment on Earth. Sinking any intrepid explorer into blackened waters means facing freezing temperatures and crushing pressure. Ever listened to the sound of metal creaking under pressure? Without protection, puny electronic components in a robot don't have a chance.