Learning from the Gecko's Tail

Geckos are well known for their ability to climb even the smoothest of surfaces (like glass) by harnessing the molecular power of van der Waals forces. Scientists are now developing synthetic compounds capable of achieving the same feat... and sacrificing their first-borns in the name of science :)

As Robert Full shows in this great presentation, however, it turns out that everyone's been overlooking one of the most talented aspects of the gecko: its tail.

And you thought the only thing geckos were good for was selling insurance...
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