#Boston Dynamics robo-dog sniffs out radiation in Ukraine’s Chernobyl

Boston Dynamics four-legged robotic dog known as “Spot” explored on October 22 the area around Chernobyl’s nuclear reactor number four, the site of the world’s worst nuclear accident.

Scientists from the University of Bristol brought robotic platforms, including Spot, to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant to test their ability to operate under radiation conditions.

According to the scientists, equipment to measure radiation levels can be possibly attached to Spot’s back which will allow conducting radiation surveys remotely.

Video released by the power plant showed Spot walking around the area under a massive confinement shelter built to cover an aging sarcophagus designed to stop radiation leaking out from the fourth reactor.

David Megson-Smith, University’s senior post-doctoral researcher, said the experience at Chernobyl will help his team to progress on designing robotic platforms for nuclear industry purposes.

The accident on April 26, 1986 in then Soviet Ukraine was caused by a botched safety test that sent plumes of nuclear material across much of Europe. It killed dozens of people within weeks and forced tens of thousands to flee. The final death toll of those killed by radiation-related illnesses such as cancer is subject to debate.