Space changes the rules for almost everything, including how a robot should move. On Earth, legs help us stand, balance and walk across a room. In microgravity, those same legs lose much of their purpose.

That is why Orbit Robotics, an academic spinout from ETH Zurich, took a different approach with Helios. The robot was built with four arms so it can grip, brace and work inside a spacecraft. Two arms can hold on while the other two handle tools, cargo and equipment.

It is a smart design for a place where floating is easy and staying steady is the real challenge. Here is how Helios works and why it could change the way astronauts get help in orbit.

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IS THIS SPACE CAPSULE HOW WE WILL LIVE AND WORK IN ORBIT IN THE FUTURE?

Why the Helios space robot has four arms

Helios uses two pairs of arms with different jobs. One pair can anchor the robot to interior surfaces. The other pair can handle tools, unload cargo, move equipment or perform other work inside a spacecraft.

That setup is important because stability and work need to happen at the same time in orbit. A floating robot cannot casually plant its feet, bend over and pick something up. It needs to hold on while it works.

That is where Helios makes sense. Two arms can keep it steady while the other two get the job done. In microgravity, legs become extra hardware unless they can grip, brace or manipulate objects. Helios skips that problem by turning the whole body into a tool for movement and work.

How this four-armed space robot works

Orbit Robotics says Helios uses a tendon-driven system. Instead of placing motors at every joint, the robot keeps many of those motors closer to the shoulders. Cables and pulleys then transmit force through the arms.

That design can reduce weight at the ends of the limbs. In space, heavy limbs can create awkward movement. A robot also needs control, especially when it is holding cargo or tools near expensive equipment.

Helios also uses a rolling-contact elbow joint. That may sound like a tiny detail. In orbit, it can make a big difference. A sudden jerk could destabilize the robot. It could also send whatever the robot is carrying drifting across a spacecraft. Smooth movement becomes a safety feature.

How IKARUS helped shape Helios

Before Helios, the team built an earlier robot platform called IKARUS. That project helped test ideas such as teleoperation, imitation learning and dual-arm manipulation. In other words, IKARUS gave the team a way to learn how a robot could move, copy tasks and handle objects in a space-like setting.

Those lessons helped shape Helios. That is important because space hardware rarely gets a second chance. A robot designed for orbit has to be reliable, compact and useful in cramped conditions. It also has to behave predictably around humans. Helios builds on that earlier work with a body that better fits the environment.

QUADRUPED ROBOT PLAYS BADMINTON WITH YOU USING AI

Why astronauts need robotic help in orbit

Orbit Robotics says its mission is to free astronauts, not replace them. That sounds reassuring. It also makes practical sense. Astronauts are highly trained people doing some of the most expensive labor imaginable. Yet a major chunk of crew time aboard the International Space Station goes toward maintenance.

Some estimates put maintenance at roughly 35% of crew time. At an estimated $140,000 per astronaut-hour, basic logistics can become shockingly expensive. That means sorting supplies, moving equipment or handling routine work can carry a huge price tag. Helios does not need to be a genius to help. It needs to move through narrow corridors, stay stable without gravity and manipulate objects with care. That is the point of the design.

What Helios could do in space

The first job for Helios appears focused on interior spacecraft work. That could include unloading cargo, helping manage supplies, moving gear and assisting with routine maintenance. Those jobs may sound boring. In orbit, boring tasks still take time, training and attention.

Over time, Orbit Robotics sees a broader role for robots like Helios. That could include satellite servicing. It could also include in-space construction as commercial stations and orbital habitats become more common.

If launch costs keep falling, more equipment will head into orbit. More hardware means more maintenance. More stations mean more logistics. That creates a clear opening for robots like Helios, built for space from the start.

Why robots may take on more space work

Human spaceflight still captures the imagination. It always has. However, the human body has serious limits in space. Astronauts can face radiation exposure, bone loss, vision problems and cognitive effects linked to fluid shifts in the brain.

Those risks grow during longer missions. Robots do not need air, food, sleep or radiation protection in the same way humans do. They can also take risks that would be unacceptable for astronauts.

That does not make astronauts obsolete overnight. Still, it changes the conversation. If machines can handle more work in orbit, humans may spend less time on routine tasks and more time on science. That could mean more attention on research tied to aging, cancer treatments, organ bioprinting and other experiments that benefit from microgravity.

CHINA’S COMPACT HUMANOID ROBOT SHOWS OFF BALANCE AND FLIPS

Could space robots build the next space economy?

If commercial space stations grow, they will need constant care. Cargo will need to be sorted. Equipment will need to be moved. Structures may need inspection or repair. Satellites may need servicing. Future habitats may need robots that can assemble, maintain and adapt.

That is where a machine like Helios becomes more than a cool prototype. It could become part of the labor force that keeps space infrastructure running.

The big question is whether humans remain at the center of that work or move into a more selective role. We may still send astronauts into orbit, but their jobs could change dramatically.

Instead of doing every task by hand, they may supervise robots built for a place where the human body struggles.

What Helios could mean for future space robots

Engineers are starting to design machines for specific environments instead of forcing them into human-shaped bodies. That shift could affect more than space exploration.

On Earth, robots already work in warehouses, factories, hospitals and disaster zones. In each case, the best design may not look human. It may look strange, specialized and a little unsettling.

Helios shows why that can be a good thing. A robot built for its environment can work more efficiently. It can also take on risky jobs and help humans focus on work that needs judgment, creativity or science training.

For space, that could mean safer missions. It could also mean fewer astronauts spending precious hours on routine maintenance.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Helios stands out because it was built for the place it is meant to work. In orbit, walking offers very little help. Gripping, bracing and handling equipment become much more important. That is what makes the four-armed design so practical. It gives the robot a way to hold on while it works, which is exactly what astronauts need in microgravity. Orbit Robotics says Helios is meant to help astronauts, not replace them. Still, this robot raises a bigger question. As machines grow more capable, they could take on more of the risky and repetitive work beyond Earth. That could give astronauts more time for science, discovery and decisions that need human judgment. It could also change how we think about sending people into space in the first place.

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Would you rather see astronauts doing the work in orbit, or robots taking over the risky stuff? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Whether you’re considering starting a Sonos speaker setup, or adding to an existing group, the Sonos Era 100 is worth picking up. The compact, capable smart speaker is currently marked down to $189 ($30 off) at a variety of retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from Sonos. If you want an even lower price, Sonos is selling refurbished Era 100 speakers for just $134. They come with fresh accessories and packaging, and sport the same one-year warranty as its new speakers.

The wireless speaker has a rich, detailed sound profile, with room-filling audio despite its small size. You might be able to improve the sound further with the Sonos Trueplay feature, which uses either your phone or the speaker’s built-in microphone to automatically tune it to your space. The Era 100 can easily connect with other speakers in the Sonos ecosystem for multi-room play, even with different Sonos models.

The Era 100 has expanded functionality from previous entry-level Sonos speakers, adding in Bluetooth and USB-C wired audio, as well as improved onboard controls. While the speaker features built-in voice assistant support for both Sonos and Alexa, you can flip a switch on its back to cut power to the microphone.

Carnival Corporation has confirmed a data breach affecting nearly 6 million people, and the fallout could reach travelers who may not think of themselves as Carnival customers.

The company says the incident involved a social engineering attack on a single user account. In other words, someone fooled an employee and gained access to part of Carnival’s IT system.

For cruise customers, the real concern starts after the breach. Stolen personal details can help scammers write messages that feel far more believable. Here is what may have been exposed, what Have I Been Pwned found in the leaked data and what you can do now to protect yourself.

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MAJOR CRUISE LINE HACK EXPOSES SENSITIVE DATA OF NEARLY 6 MILLION TRAVELERS

What information was exposed in the Carnival breach?

Carnival Corporation says the breach began with a social engineering attack on a single user account. An unauthorized actor gained access to a limited part of the company’s IT system. Carnival says it immediately blocked the activity, brought in third-party security experts and alerted law enforcement.

A Carnival Corporation spokesperson told CyberGuy,

“In April, we identified unauthorized access to a limited part of our IT system caused by a social engineering attack on a single user account. We immediately blocked the activity, engaged third-party security experts and alerted law enforcement. Our investigation found certain personal information was illegally accessed. We’re notifying affected individuals and deeply regret any concern this causes. Protecting the privacy and security of personal data is a priority for us and we’ve added new layers of security and monitoring on top of the comprehensive protections already in place. We’ll also continue advancing our defenses against evolving threats.”

State breach reporting shows 5,995,277 people were affected. Carnival says the impacted data varies by individual. However, the company says the information known to be involved includes names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth and government-issued identification numbers, such as driver’s license numbers and passport numbers.

What Have I Been Pwned found in the leaked Carnival data

Have I Been Pwned also analyzed the data published by ShinyHunters and said it contained 8.7 million records with 7.5 million unique email addresses. That data appeared tied to Holland America’s Mariner Society loyalty program and included names, dates of birth, email addresses, genders, geographic locations, salutations and loyalty program details.

That means this breach could affect you even if you think of yourself as a Holland America customer, not a Carnival customer. Even without a credit card number, this type of data can create problems. Criminals can use it to build fake emails, texts and calls that sound like they came from a real cruise brand. For example, a scammer could mention loyalty points, an upcoming trip, a refund or a cabin upgrade. That one familiar detail may be enough to get you to click.

What ShinyHunters claimed about Carnival

Carnival has not publicly confirmed that ShinyHunters carried out the attack. However, the extortion gang claimed responsibility in April 2026 and said it stole millions of records and internal corporate data.

ShinyHunters has also been tied to broader data theft and extortion activity involving Salesforce customers. The group often pressures companies by threatening to leak or sell stolen information.

The FBI has warned victims not to pay ransom demands from the group. Paying does not guarantee stolen data will be deleted. It also does not stop criminals from trying to extort victims again.

For you, the concern is what happens next. Once your data leaks, scammers may try to use it in emails, texts or calls that sound more believable than the usual junk.

Why the Carnival breach could put you at risk

Travel scams work because they catch you when you are excited, rushed or distracted. Maybe you booked a cruise years ago. Maybe you joined a loyalty program and forgot about it. Maybe you sailed with Holland America, Princess Cruises or another Carnival-owned brand. That old account can still have value to criminals.

Carnival has also dealt with several cybersecurity incidents before. The company disclosed breaches in March 2020 and June 2021 after attackers accessed employee email accounts. Ransomware incidents in August 2020 and December 2020 also exposed personal information tied to Carnival customers and employees.

That history does not mean every Carnival customer will face fraud. But it does show why old travel accounts deserve attention. A loyalty account can reveal more than points. It can connect your name, email, birthday, travel history and brand preferences.

That gives scammers more ways to sound convincing. A fake email may claim your loyalty points are expiring. A text may say you qualify for a refund. A caller may say your account needs verification. Those tricks can lead to stolen passwords, malware, fake payment pages or identity theft attempts.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ONLINE PRIVACY AND SECURITY ON YOUR NEXT CRUISE VACATION

Ways to stay safe after the Carnival breach

If you receive a Carnival breach notice, read it closely so you know what information may have been involved. Some impacted data may include government-issued identification numbers, so take these steps to lock down your accounts, spot fake cruise messages and reduce the chances that scammers can use your personal details against you.

1) Review Carnival’s offer for credit monitoring

Carnival says it is offering eligible U.S. individuals two years of complimentary credit monitoring. If you receive a notice, use the contact details in that notice or Carnival’s official breach webpage. Do not trust random links in emails, texts or search ads claiming to help you enroll.

2) Change your cruise account passwords

Go directly to the official website or app. Do not click a link from an email or text. Use a strong, unique password for every travel account. A password manager can help you create and store better passwords. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

3) Turn on two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another layer of protection. Even if someone steals your password, they still need a second approval. Use an authentication app when possible. Text codes help, but they can be weaker if a scammer tries a SIM swap attack.

4) Watch for fake cruise emails and texts

Be suspicious of messages about refunds, loyalty points, upgrades, cancellations or account verification. Scammers love urgent wording. They want you to click before you think. Instead, go straight to the company’s website or app. Check your account there.

5) Use a data removal service

A data removal service will not undo the Carnival breach. However, it can help remove your personal information from data broker and people-search sites. That can make it harder for scammers to combine leaked breach data with your home address, phone number, relatives’ names or other details found online. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

6) Use strong antivirus protection

Breaches often lead to phishing emails with dangerous links or attachments. Strong antivirus protection can help block malicious websites, scam pages and malware before they do damage. Also, keep your phone, tablet and computer updated. Security updates close holes that criminals try to exploit. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

7) Do not share personal details with callers

If someone calls and claims to represent a cruise line, do not give out your date of birth, payment details or login codes. Hang up and call the company using a number from its official website.

10 SIGNS YOUR PERSONAL DATA IS BEING SOLD ONLINE

8) Monitor your bank and credit card accounts

Check your statements for charges you do not recognize. Small test charges can show up before larger fraud attempts. Report suspicious activity right away. Many banks also let you lock a card from the app while you investigate.

9) Consider a credit freeze

A credit freeze can block criminals from opening new credit accounts in your name. You can freeze your credit for free with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can also lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit.

10) Review your credit reports

Check your credit reports for accounts, addresses or inquiries you do not recognize. You can get free weekly credit reports from the three major credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.

11) Watch for misuse of your ID documents

Because Carnival says some impacted data may include driver’s license or passport numbers, be extra cautious with messages asking you to “verify” your identity. Do not upload a photo of your ID through a link in an email or text. Go directly to the official company, bank or government website instead.

12) Consider identity theft protection

Identity theft protection can help monitor your personal information, credit files and financial activity for warning signs of fraud. Some plans also include breach or dark web monitoring, which can alert you if your email address or other personal details appear in known leaks. See my tips and best picks on Best Identity Theft Protection at Cyberguy.com

13) Save the breach notice

Keep a copy of any notice you receive from Carnival. It may explain what information was involved and what support the company offers. Be careful with fake settlement or claim websites. Scammers often create lookalike pages after major breaches.

Kurt’s key takeaways

The Carnival data breach shows why travel accounts need the same care as banking, shopping and email accounts. A cruise may last a week, but the data you shared can stick around for years. Take a few minutes now to tighten your accounts. Change reused passwords, watch for cruise-themed scams and consider freezing your credit if you want stronger protection.

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Have travel companies earned enough trust to keep collecting so much personal data, or should loyalty programs start asking for far less? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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