image: Office of Naval Research Command Master Chief Charles Ziervogel the Powered Rope Ascender, which was originally designed for use by soldiers in urban combat and cave exploration. ONR's TechSolutions sponsored the handheld climbing tool, which allows warfighters to ascend and descend vertical surfaces quickly, at a rate of six feet per second. view more
Credit: Office of Naval Research photo by John F. Williams/Released
ARLINGTON, Va.— The History Channel will feature an Office of Naval Research (ONR)-sponsored device that could help Sailors and Marines scale walls like Batman during its "Modern Marvels" show Nov. 28.
Funded by ONR's TechSolutions program, the Powered Rope Ascender was originally designed for use by soldiers in urban combat and cave exploration. The handheld climbing tool allows warfighters to ascend and descend vertical surfaces quickly, at a rate of six feet per second.
As ONR's rapid-response science and technology program, TechSolutions funded the project to create a next-generation system for naval operations. The resulting technology, which is more compact and runs on a rechargeable battery, can assist maritime security teams in boarding ships and help helicopter rescue crews evacuate casualties, among other applications.
The Ascender will be spotlighted during a "Modern Marvels" episode called "Weird Machines."
"Modern Marvels" airs on the History Channel on Monday nights. Check local listings for show times.
About the Office of Naval Research
The Department of the Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.