Drop-Dodging Mosquito
A mosquito among water droplets. Thanks to their low mass, mosquitoes can survive hits from droplets 50 times their own weight.
Crushing Blow
Being hit by a drop on a solid surface is fatal for mosquitoes.
MIdair Collisions
In midair, drops don't splash on mosquitoes. Instead, the mosquitoes tumble along with the droplets, eventually disengaging and flying away unharmed.
Water Drops
Droplets transfer only 10 percent of their force onto a flying mosquito.
Raindrops Falling On My Head
Most likely, mosquitoes try to seek shelter during rainstorms, according to study researcher David Hu.
Falling Water
Mosquitoes' ability to survive may inspire designs for insect-sized flying robotics.
Balancing Act
A mosquito braces for the moment of impact.
Mosquito Free-Fall
As long as mosquitoes fly high enough so they can detach from a falling drop before hitting the ground, they easily survive being hit.
