# Key Points from ##hplusroadmap IRC Log

• The conversation briefly discussed Kuratas, a rideable and user-operated robot built by Japanese company Suidobashi Heavy Industry, described as "the world's first giant boarding robot" unveiled in 2012.

• Kuratas was noted to have a significant price tag of US$1,353,500 (¥134,555,495, or €1,040,976) as of April 2013, highlighting the substantial cost barriers to advanced robotics technology.

• The log referenced a June 2015 challenge from MegaBots to Suidobashi Heavy Industry proposing a robot duel between Kuratas and MegaBots' Mark II, indicating interest in competitive applications for large-scale robotics.

• A LEGO Ideas project for "The Mechanoids mark-1A Scouter" was shared, describing a fully articulating model with twin guns and transformable features.

• The conversation touched on DIY biology experiments, including discussion of PCR units and ordering primers in the Netherlands, with references to EU regulations around genetic modification.

• There was mention of Cladosporium sphaerospermum, a fungus notable for its ability to withstand high levels of radiation, potentially relevant to space travel or extreme environment adaptation.