Vernier Science Education Adds 2 New Sensors to Environmental Science Equipment

Scientific data collection company Vernier Science Education has introduced two new sensors to its lineup of equipment for high school and college environmental science. The two sensors are wireless and connect to student devices to collect and analyze data.

The Go Direct Pyranometer measures electromagnetic radiation in watts per square meter in the infrared, visible, and UV ranges. This sensor is particularly suitable for reading and analyzing solar cells and their efficiency, the company said. The pyranometer page outlines specs and requirements.

The Go Direct PAR (photosynthetically active radiation) sensor measures photosynthetic light levels in both air and water, reporting on photosynthetic photo flux density from both sunlight and electric light. It has a waterproof sensor head useful for “agricultural science, biology, and environmental science applications, including experiments investigating photosynthesis and primary productivity,” Vernier said. This device page also lists its specs and requirements.

Both of these sensors connect to students’ mobile devices, Chromebooks, or other computers, with the Vernier Graphical Analysis Pro app. They can be used wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired with a micro USB cable, included. Both sensors include a rechargeable battery. Each device costs $299.

The app allows students to time mark events such as sunrise and sunset, and they can perform experiments and share and analyze data in real time either on site or remotely.

"These sensors give educators new ways to study solar energy and photosynthesis with their students," said John Wheeler, Vernier CEO. "Whether investigating how energy varies with clouds or the process of photosynthesis in aquatic and terrestrial environments, educators can engage their students in meaningful, hands-on learning with real world applications."

Visit Vernier’s environmental science page to learn more about its product offerings.

About the Author

Kate Lucariello is a former newspaper editor, EAST Lab high school teacher and college English teacher.

Featured

  • OpenAI Introduces Slimmer, Cheaper GPT-4o Mini

    OpenAI has announced the launch of GPT-4o Mini, a slimmed down, more affordable version of its flagship multimodal GPT-4o model.

  • cloud icon connected to a data network with an alert symbol (a triangle with an exclamation mark) overlaying the cloud

    U.S. Department of Commerce Proposes Reporting Requirements for AI, Cloud Providers

    The United States Department of Commerce is proposing a new reporting requirement for AI developers and cloud providers. This proposed rule from the department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) aims to enhance national security by establishing reporting requirements for the development of advanced AI models and computing clusters.

  • A top-down view of a person walking through a maze with walls made of glowing blue Wi-Fi symbols on dark pathways

    Navigating New E-Rate Rules for WiFi Hotspots

    Beginning in funding year 2025, WiFi hotspots will be eligible for E-rate Category One discounts. Here's what you need to know about your school's eligibility, funding caps, tracking requirements, and more.

  • close-up illustration of a hand signing a legislative document

    California Passes AI Safety Bill, Awaits Governor's Signature

    California lawmakers have approved a bill that would impose new restrictions on AI technologies, potentially setting a national precedent for regulating the rapidly evolving field. The legislation, known as S.B. 1047, now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. He has until the end of September to decide whether to sign it into law.