Student Research Reports

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In this research, a NASA TerraRover 2 was modified to detect and record data for fine particulate matter, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), ultraviolet light (UV), and sound. All sensors were independently programmed using the Arduino programming language and wired onto Arduino Uno Boards. Due to the limited space, the researchers prototyped an elevated, lightweight platform. This platform supported the CO2, CO, UV, and sound sensors. The researchers used CAD modeling to design and 3D-print new wheels for the TerraRover 2 in an effort to increase the thickness of the wheels for better traction. Multiple trial runs were made with particle size concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 microns, carbon dioxide (ppm), carbon monoxide (ppm), ultraviolet light (nm), and sound (decibels) at three different sites around our school. All atmospheric sensors were remotely mobilized using the TerraRover 2, a robot using 3D-printed components and a controller. Micro SD cards were used to remotely save data for each sensor. The goal of this research was to use the data collected to compare with select atmospheric data (using GLOBE protocols) from several different areas around Crestwood High School. The data we collected and analyzed is significant over time as overall health and wellbeing may be compromised. Knowing levels of select atmospheric gases may help alert school personnel of unsafe outdoor air conditions. Data analysis demonstrated some differences between PM, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ultraviolet light, and sound at various different locations. However, the difference was less than expected. In the future, the use of the TerraRover 2 can expand to different protocols other than air quality, allowing it to be used for various purposes. The microsensors on the TerraRover 2 can be a significant and novel way to monitor potentially toxic air remotely.