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Summarize
This robot looks like jellyfish and can work underwater
The drone is nearly indistinguishable from real jellyfish

This robot looks like jellyfish and can work underwater

Oct 26, 2025
04:02 pm

What's the story

Chinese scientists have unveiled an innovative "ghost" drone that resembles a jellyfish and is capable of conducting covert underwater missions. The bionic jellyfish robot, dubbed as an "underwater phantom," was developed by Tao Kai from the Northwestern Polytechnical University's School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering in Xian, Shaanxi province. The robot's design is almost indistinguishable from real jellyfish when submerged, allowing intelligent detection and real-time monitoring in aquatic environments.

Technological advancement

The drone's design is indistinguishable from real jellyfish

The "underwater phantom" drone is a major technological advancement, thanks to its low power consumption, near-silent operation, and lifelike design. This makes it perfect for deep-sea covert monitoring missions. It can observe fragile ecosystems and perform precise inspections of underwater structures without drawing much attention. The robot's transparent form with an umbrella-like body and tentacles closely mimics a jellyfish's appearance.

Specifications

The robot weighs only 56g

The "underwater phantom" drone is made from a hydrogel electrode material developed by the research team. It is a compact device, measuring just 120mm in diameter and weighing only 56g. This combination of small size and light weight further enhances its stealth capabilities, making it an ideal candidate for covert underwater missions.