Here's how humanoid robots could fit into the future of defense, society – KSL News

Here’s how humanoid robots could fit into the future of defense, society  KSL News

SALT LAKE CITY — How close are we, really, to a society that includes humanoid robots?Perhaps not as far as one may think.Utah State University professor Mario Harper certainly thinks so, and he was on hand at the 47G Zero Gravity Summit Wednesday to showcase their potential — specifically the potential of Dallas and Dallas II, two humanoid robots the university acquired from overseas. @USUAggies took a trip down to SLC to showcase "Dallas," a humanoid robot, as part of @47G_Utah Zero Gravity Summit. Researchers explained the role such robots could play in the future of society and the defense industry. More summit coverage can be found @KSLcom https://t.co/1oWYuG4iwt— Logan Stefanich (@loganstefanich) October 28, 2026 But Dallas' capabilities don't end on the dance floor, with Harper explaining that the humanoid bots could have major applications societally and in the defense sector.For a while, Harper said researchers primarily used four-legged robots and rollers for work on interplanetary surfaces.

But when it comes to working on complex terrain or in human environments, robots need to be able to replicate human abilities."Much of this just boils down to, 'Whose world is this?'" Harper said. "And I dare say, this is humanity's world. This planet is currently humanity's planet, and that means that everything is geared for humans to walk on. The softness of