Boston Dynamics robot dogs have begun guarding the airport from animals. Video

At the end of March 2024, Fairbanks International Airport in Alaska hired robot dogs developed by Boston Dynamics. Dogs named Aurora patrol the area, scaring away birds and other animals.

The fact that a "new employee" appeared in the named air harbor, the Department of Transport and Public Institutions of Alaska reported. The robot will be used to "improve the safety and efficiency of the airport." The fact is that birds and wild animals pose a serious threat to aircraft. The decision to take on the Aurora service was made after the use of drones to scare off animals was considered too dangerous.

Boston Dynamics

The acquisition of a robotic dog cost about $70 thousand. The dog's primary mission is to patrol areas near runways and other critical objects. The robot will bypass every hour, scaring away uninvited guests. In addition to automatic operation, it is possible to control using a tablet or personal computer.

The Aurora can move through water and snow, recognizing obstacles in its path. Panels that simulate the appearance of a coyote or fox can be installed on the body of a robot. However, the project participants admit that such a "disguise" is not too realistic. And it was decided to abandon the application of natural animal fur in order to maintain the dog's resistance to atmospheric phenomena and environmental conditions.

If the Boston Dynamics robot project at Fairbanks Airport is considered successful, such machines could appear in other Alaska air harbors. The advantage of the robot is that it can work 24 hours a day without rest and food, as well as collect useful data using the built-in camera and sensors.^[1]

Notes