Gravity-Defying Materials, Microsoft's Start Menu Surprise, and Lunar Robot Canines

This podcast episode discusses two main topics: Microsoft's increased use of advertising in Windows 11 and the development of robotic dogs for lunar exploration. In the case of Microsoft, the episode explores how ads have been injected into various parts of Windows, including the Start menu, File Explorer, and built-in apps. It also mentions that Microsoft is testing ads in the Windows 11 Settings app. While these ads may frustrate users who prefer an ad-free experience, the company has not ruled out officially deploying them in the future. On the topic of robotic dogs for lunar exploration, the episode highlights how space agencies and research institutions are developing agile four-legged robots to navigate challenging terrains on the moon. Examples include the European Space Agency's LEAP mission concept and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Au-Spot robot. The aim of these projects is to leverage legged robots' versatility in order to explore the lunar surface and support future human missions.