Brushing the surface of rocks with Curiosity's dust removal tool first enables the arm-held hand lens camera and X-ray spectrometer, in particular, to see features that might otherwise be obstructed.

BBC: Curiosity Mars rover deploys its rock brush

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)

The large robotic arm, which is connected to a laser cutting tool, can be manoeuvred around tight spaces in hazardous environments.

BBC: OC Robotics' LaserSnake project gets ?6m grant