To speed rescue efforts, engineers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a robot that would eliminate some of the unknowns of mine rescue operations and arm first responders with the most valuable tool: information.

ENGADGET: Gemini-Scout robot can scope out mining accidents, may save lives (video)

Israel is sending an army rescue unit, including engineers, doctors and other medical staff.

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But faster helicopters would be useful, particularly for rescue missions and military operations, so engineers are constantly looking for ways to make them.

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Sandia robotics engineers have designed the Gemini-Scout Mine Rescue Robot, which finds dangers and can provide relief to trapped miners.

ENGADGET: Gemini-Scout robot can scope out mining accidents, may save lives (video)

This drill will be used, engineers say, for the so-called plan B, as a parallel attempt to a drill a rescue shaft down to the miners.

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