Self-Sustaining Ocean Observation Station (S.O.O.S)
Problem Identification
The 21st century is the “Sea Century” — but we face growing environmental and economic threats.
- Sea level has risen 8–9 inches since 1880
- Ocean acidity increased — pH dropped from 8.11 to 8.05 in 40 years
- Sea surface temperatures rose by ~0.6°C since 1980
- Tsunamis and hurricanes cause massive loss of life and damage yearly
- Current monitoring tools are costly, slow, and not real-time
A low-cost, real-time, and self-sustaining Smart Ocean Observing System (SOOS) — designed to track ocean conditions and help solve critical environmental and economic challenges.
Prototypes
In our innovation project, we designed a total of four prototypes to continue improving our design.
Prototype 1 (Aug 2024)
Three main parts: floating unit with satellite/solar, sensor unit, and anchor unit.
Prototype 2 (Dec 2024)
Mobile unit (anchor removed), propeller system, moving sensor cabinet.
Prototype 3 (Jan 2025)
Shift to Arduino/ESP32. pH, TDS, Temperature sensors. Lower cost.
Prototype 4 (April 2025)
Final Design. GPS, Compass, Display, integrated sensors and navigation.
Product Design
We explored Arduino/Raspberry Pi as the brain. Checked GPS/Compass modules (affordable). Found OpenCTD ($500) as a reference for low-cost scientific instruments.
Experiments
We waterproofed sensors and tested at 4 locations. Surprisingly, a swimming pool had high TDS! We verified that low-cost sensors could reliably measure underwater.
Impact & Applications
- 🪸 Coral Protection: Detect rising temps/pollution.
- 🏔️ Glacier Tracking: Monitor melting shifts.
- 🐟 Marine Life: Observe biodiversity changes.
- 🌊 Tsunami Alerts: Sense seismic shifts early.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to experts from ASU (Prof. Li, Prof. Wang), OdySea Aquarium (Miss Cara), and Dr. Guo/Dr. Shi for their guidance.
Coming Innovation Project
Stay tuned for our 2025-2026 season project!