Openly Published Environmental Sensing
The Openly Published Environmental Sensing Lab expands the possibilities of scientific observation of our Earth, transforming the technology, methods, and culture by combining open-source development and cutting edge technology.
Our Purpose: The Open-Sensing Lab is focused on developing environmental sensing projects and research. From soldering stations to 3D printers to laser cutters, our lab provides the tools necessary for students, professors, and researchers alike to develop tools used locally and worldwide by the ecological science and engineering community.
Need help designing, soldering, or printing? Ask us for help! Aside from managing the machines, our employees are also here to help design and create projects that are beyond the scope of the developer.
The goals of the OPEnS Lab are to:
- Develop new approaches to precision farming under a changing climate. Specifically, how to have sensor-systems of low enough cost and high enough accuracy to be used across most agricultural settings and for research in environmental science;
- Advance the field of environmental sensing for agricultural and environmental sciences through development of novel adaptation of 3-D printing and solid-state sensors of water, atmosphere, and soil status;
- Create global engagement through the world’s first curated system of peer-reviewed, DOI indexed, open-source publication of designs and validation studies of evolving scientific instrumentation for environmental observation;
- Provide user, student and researcher access to the power of hands-on experimentation and experimental design through access to a wide range of machines;
- Foster student and faculty excitement, creativity and innovation by translating ideas into functional systems;
- Promote collaborative learning between farmers, extension agents, faculty and students around the world.
