Computer engineers and biologists are currently collaborating in a bizarre experiment in a Massachusetts swamp. Turtlenet is a project where researchers have attached small solar-powered computers to the backs of 15 actual snapping turtles.
The idea behind the technology is to create a network of constantly moving devices that record and store information, transmit data from one device to another, then relay all the saved information to a central location while running on self-charging batteries.
The computers record the turtle's vital signs (we swear we're not making this up), and when they come within 1/10th of a mile to each other, the computers start swapping information. In this manner info about all the turtles is relayed back to the base station, node-by-node style, at UMass Amherst.
And why are they doing this? Biologists get to track the turtles, which are in danger of extinction, and the computer guys get to test wireless communication networks.
Animal lovers, have no fear; the computers are lightweight, postcard-sized, and attached in such a way that mating is still possible.
via ap
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