A chance to name Long Beach's new beach-cleaning robot

A new piece of technology in Long Beach is helping to keep the marina clean, and it needs youthful creativity to dress it up and give it a name!

Currently known as 'Jellyfishbot,' this 3 feet by 3 feet "Roomba of the sea" is equipped with a net, a live camera, and crash avoidance systems to help it navigate as it scoops up all types of debris.

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Using just one operator and GPS, the bot can clear up to 100 pounds of waste in one go.

Long Beach's superintendent for marine operations, Bryan Plante, told KNX News' Karen Adams that twice a week, 'Jellyfishbot' is deployed to grab "Any surface debris you see up there. Bottles, chip wrappers, candy bar wrappers, straws, any floating plastic debris we're going to be able to catch."

Plante said a competition is now underway for kids 18 and under to rename and create some artwork to cover the bot.

"As cool as a name 'Jellyfishbot' is, we want this to resonate more closely with our community," said Plante. "So rather than just being a piece of technology, we want this to be a community member that's joining us in the fight against marine pollution."

The artwork will cover the bot similarly to how a car warp functions.

Submissions must be made by Oct. 25, and the use of AI for the artwork is strictly prohibited if you want a chance to win the $1,500 scholarship package and other sponsor-donated prizes.

The finalists for round one will be chosen in early November, and the winner will be notified by the week of Nov. 11, with an award ceremony scheduled for Dec. 7.

So, if you know a youngster who would love to participate in this competition, please send them HERE .

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