A look under the hood of the 3D-printed, Raspberry Pi powered 'suicide pod'

A 3D-printed suicide pod, known as "Sarco," has been used for the first time in Switzerland, leading to multiple arrests. Designed by Philip Nitschke, an Australian pro-euthanasia activist, the pod allows individuals to self-administer euthanasia by filling the chamber with nitrogen gas, causing loss of consciousness and death. The device is intended to be user-friendly and does not require medical professionals for operation. The Sarco can be 3D printed and is powered by a Raspberry Pi, which includes a software system to assess the user's mental fitness before activation. Following the incident, Swiss authorities arrested several individuals for incitement and aiding suicide, while the pod and the deceased's body were seized for investigation. Swissmedic, the regulatory body, has stated that the Sarco does not qualify as a medical device, prompting discussions on its legal and ethical implications. The design files for the Sarco will be made available through a subscription service, but not for sale. Nitschke is also developing an implant for euthanizing patients with Alzheimer's disease. The situation raises significant questions about the intersection of technology, euthanasia, and legal frameworks.

- The Sarco pod was used for the first time in Switzerland, leading to arrests.

- It allows individuals to self-administer euthanasia using nitrogen gas.

- The device is designed to be user-friendly and does not require medical professionals.

- Swissmedic has determined the pod is not classified as a medical device.

- The design files will be available through a subscription service, not for sale.