Student Drifters
Physically build and deploy satellite-tracked drifters that track ocean currents and validate ocean models. Choose the type of drifter you want to build, construct it from a simple design, add the GPS provided and then volunteer fishermen from the organization will actually launch the tracker. Jump in and do some real science!
The concept of Student Drifters was established in 2004 as a research-based program by scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) lab in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. The program helps students to engineer and deploy low-cost, hand-built, ocean drifters and to track the results through the NOAA satellite tracking system. The data collected contributes to NOAAs Integrated Ocean Observing System and validates numerical models. Current projects also include Harmful Algal Bloom tracking, Sea Turtle Strandings, and Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Larvae tracking.
How do I get started? Got to the Student Drifters website and follow their instructions. Decide whether to purchase a Drifter Kit and build it, or whether to design and build your own with your own materials. Sign up for the satellite tracking system and follow the instructions on how to get local fishermen to deploy it.
How much time will this take? The time commitment depends on whether you are building from a kit (60-90 mins) or designing and building your own (15-20 hours)
How to expand this narrative arc? If environmental research or climate change is your narrative arc, consider building on this interest in the following ways:
Participate in a quick citizen science project that revolves around the environment or sustainability like The Big Microplastic Survey
Attend a 3 day Ocean Heroes Bootcamp to come up with a project to remove plastic from the oceans.
Apply for a grant from the Captain Planet Foundation for your own ocean related project.
HOT TIP: Ideally you should complement this project with all of the above suggestions, but if time is tight, then focus on the citizen science project, make sure to complete your Student Drifter project and if possible bring the idea to a science teacher to get a whole class to participate. The more you can show your ability to make an impact on your own community the better.