Yesterday I finished making a beacon which is a type of BEAM robot which I can best describe as a solar powered nightlight. I needed something strange to put on my desk, and this fits the bill.

I have always been really interested in robotics, but I lacked the skill, knowledge and cash to create anything interesting. Making robots was completely out of my reach. Last year I got a subscription to MAKE magazine and learned about BEAM robots which are easy to make, and use renewable power sources.

I like BEAM robotics because it emphasizes the form and aesthetics of a robot and not just the function of it. The robots are modeled after insects and plant life for their looks, and the simple logic they posses is also very similar. They are made from cheap parts and are great to fiddle with and learn from.

I might have a new hobby on my hands.