The Surfboard that’s Measuring the Ocean
Here’s a neat big data idea to harness information about the state of our oceans.
It is called Smartfin, and it’s a surfboard fin that allows surfers to collect data on ocean quality as they ride the waves.
A Smartfin attaches to surfboards just like a regular fin, but the difference is that it comes with sensors that measure a variety of ocean parameters, including PH, temperature, salinity, wave characteristics and location.
Gathering Ocean Data
The fin is easy to use. Once citizen scientists are back on dry land after their surfing session, they upload the data via Bluetooth to a mobile app. This automatically sends the information to Smartfin’s database, and the information can be viewed on its website.
The Smartfin initiative is collaborating with researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a leading center for oceanographic research.
Idea Conception
The innovation was the brainchild of Dr. Andrew Stern, a retired neurologist who now devotes his time to raising awareness of the environment. He discovered that scientists need more and better near-shore data to understand the effects of climate change on the oceans, and he realized that surfers would be in an ideal position to help.
“We have detailed information about the deep ocean, but very limited accurate information about the near shore,” he told CNN. “Satellites can’t be really accurate with data in that narrow zone, and the other way is ocean buoys and they’re just not deployed at the coast. Bingo! Smartfin can fill that gap.”
For more information about Smartfin, click here to visit its official website.
Reader Comments
surf board is an amazing app to know the measures of oceans,it's a cool idea....
Posted by alice on February 8, 2016
Add your Comment
[LOGIN FIRST] if you're already a member.fields are required.