China Unveils ‘Ghost’ Jellyfish Drone for Stealth Underwater Surveillance

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Chinese researchers have developed a fully transparent, jellyfish-shaped bionic robot designed for stealthy underwater observation and data collection. This new robotic innovation, often described as a “ghost” drone, demonstrates China’s growing expertise in biomimetic engineering and underwater robotics.

Bionic Design Inspired by Nature

The jellyfish-inspired robot was developed by Tao Kai and his team at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, Shaanxi province. Shaped like a real jellyfish with an umbrella-like dome and tentacles, the robot uses a specially developed hydrogel electrode material to achieve full transparency underwater. Measuring 120mm in diameter and weighing just 56 grams, the design ensures that the device blends seamlessly into its aquatic surroundings.

Advanced Movement and Low Energy Consumption

The robot mimics the muscle contractions and reflexes of real jellyfish through an electrostatic hydraulic actuator. Operating at only 28.5 milliwatts, it functions with minimal energy consumption and produces almost no acoustic disturbance. This low-power, near-silent performance allows it to operate covertly for extended periods, making it ideal for environmental monitoring, ecosystem observation, and deep-sea reconnaissance missions.

AI-Driven Underwater Intelligence

Equipped with an embedded artificial intelligence chip and miniature camera module, the bionic jellyfish can detect and identify underwater objects using machine learning algorithms. During demonstrations broadcast by CCTV, the robot showcased its ability to hover steadily in moving water and accurately recognise items such as fish species and university emblems. These features underline its potential for autonomous exploration and ecological research without disrupting marine life.

Strategic Advances in Bioinspired Robotics

The jellyfish robot is part of a wider initiative by Chinese scientists to advance bioinspired robotics. Northwestern Polytechnical University has previously unveiled robotic birds, geckos, locusts, and fish capable of complex, lifelike motion. These developments are seen as vital steps towards energy-efficient, stealth-capable robotics that enhance China’s position in aerospace, marine research, and intelligent systems technology.
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