Asimo, world’s most advanced robot, launches Edinburgh Science Festival

By Oliver Farrimond

THE WORLD’S most advanced robot has officially launched the Edinburgh Science Festival.

More than 7,500 people flocked to McEwan Hall over the weekend to watch the festival’s star attraction, who can walk, run, dance and even play football.

The robot, called Asimo, is the result of more than two decades of research by scientists all over the world, including a team at Edinburgh University.

Sethu Vikayakumar, professor of robotics at Edinburgh University, said that Asimo, which stands for “Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility”, represented a big step
towards a future where robots work alongside humans.

He said: “There are many potential applications for a robot like Asimo – robots could be used in healthcare, in hazardous environments where humans cannot go, and to fight the wars of the future.

“We’ve still got a long way to go with this technology, but as an autonomous humanoid robot Asimo is very exciting.”

The Edinburgh Science Festival, which runs until Sunday 19th April, has entertained more than a million visitors since its inception in 1987.

Simon Gage, director of the festival, said that Asimo was just one of many attractions on show.

He said: “There’s something for everyone, whether you want to unwrap a mummy, participate in a dinosaur dig or attend a Richard Dawkins lecture.

“There really is an awful lot to go and see.”

Conan Doyle back on fantasy writing agenda

By Oliver Farrimond

LITERARY legend Arthur Conan Doyle is set to top the artistic agenda later this month.

One of the author’s finest works – The Lost World – is to be the focus of a discussion between leading fantasy and science-fiction writers.

Adam Roberts and China Mèiville will appear at Napier University in Edinburgh to weigh up the legacy of the Victorian author.

Napier University professor Dr Linda Dryden said: “”China has a massive following – the pair will no doubt be a huge draw for fans of fantasy and science fiction.

“The event will give people the opportunity to hear contemporary creative writers of fantasy-fiction talking about one of Edinburgh’s most famous authors, and how he helped to transform the genre.”

The Lost World, published in 1912, tells of the discovery of a prehistoric world in South America where dinosaurs and apes have been left untouched by human civilisation.

The discussion is just one of a number of events to pay homage to Charles Darwin, and his contribution to the theory of evolution, on the bicentenary of his birth.

Dr Dryden added: “I am hopeful that, as well as offering an un-missable opportunity for fans, we will also be helping to bring literature to a new audience.”

The ‘Fictional Worlds’ Conan Doyle discussion will be chaired by Scotland on Sunday’s literary editor Stuart Kelly, and takes place on February 28 at St Augustine’s Church.