A human being has controlled a robot hand from more than 5,000 miles away in a world first that could revolutionise the world of robotics. The robot successfully transmitted the feeling of touch across the Atlantic, from California to London, allowing for instantaneous and lifelike remote control. A demonstrator - equipped with a special glove - picked up balls, typed words on a keyboard and played chess in real time. Three tech firms joined forces on the project which simulates touch and allows for long-distance control of robots. Future applications, experts say, include bomb disposal, space exploration and breakthroughs in methods of communication.