Developing software and hardware to mimic human gait has been a challenge. Companies like Boston Dynamics have come a long way, but despite the robots’ advanced movements, they are not yet as neat in step as we humans.

At the same time, the software for controlling drones has become very advanced, and Caltech’s Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies has created a robot that, in addition to walking on two legs, can fly. But the four propellers are also used to balance the 76 cm high robot – with a very good result, according to Caltech.

The name Leonardo is short for “legs onboard drone”, and thanks to the support, the robot can both balance on a slack line and skateboard. Climbing stairs is a classic challenge that Leo tackles flying.

The capability comes at the price of a limited cargo capacity, but Caltech envisions that Leo can bridge the gap between advanced, walking robots and drones. The concept may also have potential for use on Mars.

Here you can read the research group’s study which is published in the journal Science Robotics.

Watch the clip on Leo below.