STEM Beyond the Classroom
Fish Tank Divider
I was approached by a teacher to 3D print a divider for use in a fish tank, so that the pebbles at the bottom would not get into the fish food. To do this, I designed a "wave wall" that has a lip curving inward. This allows the water and fish to move freely while keeping the pebbles in place. I had to use my technology and engineering skills to design a solution to a real world problem.
Working With Professor Walczak
During the Plant Mars Challenge, we had the opportunity to work with a professor who helped us in determining our research question and experimental design. She also provided insight into the health of our plants, allowing us to keep them alive far longer. By collaborating with Dr. Walczak, we gained invaluable experience in the botanist world.
Volcanology
A certain STEM speaker we experienced was a volcanologist who used drones to study pyroclastic flows. This method of study allows researchers to see the lava from above and measure its change over time. This type of research makes it possible to understand how volcanoes formed and can even provide insight into how our world developed.
Artemis & Return to the Moon
A recent STEM speaker we had the privilege to meet was a scientist from NASA who educated us on plans for Artemis, a return mission to the moon that will help humanity to establish a permanent presence there. It was interesting to learn about the plans for an orbital station, as well as how that station could be used to survey the moon and set up infrastructure.
Bringing Pots To Life
During the Mars Challenge, we were faced with the unique challenge of creating our own agricultural equipment. No plant pots on the market were suitable to our needs for our experiment, and we decided to design our own using 3D printing. This meant that I had to design and print these pots from scratch using the STEM Lab, so that they could be used in the Plant Mars Challenge.
