Eighty PCs running artificial intelligence software used survival of the fittest principles to evolve a tiny antenna that will be used on a space mission next month. NASA called the group of computers a Borg computer collective. After starting with a random antenna design, the hive of computers spent just 10 hours going through millions of possibilities for a space antenna. The group settled on a design that looked pretty much like a bent paper clip, determining that shape as the most efficient for the mission. According to NASA, the odd-shaped antenna perfectly matches the performance that NASA specified. But what if you don't think a bent-up paperclip makes a good space antenna? Tough. Resistance is futile. You will be assimilated.

'Borg' Computer Collective Designs NASA Space Antenna
[NASA via boingboing]

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