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
✅ Our Solution:
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 improve our design ...
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Prototype 1: The first prototype consists of three main parts: a floating unit with satellite communication, solar panels, and stabilizers for real-time data transmission and energy supply; a sensor unit that moves along a rope to collect measurements at various depths; and an anchor unit that keeps the system securely in place, even in rough sea conditions.
Prototype 2: The second prototype was also built using LEGO parts. To simplify the system, the anchor unit was removed, allowing the SOOS to become mobile using its propeller system. The sensor module was housed in a cabinet that can move up and down into the sea, enabling vertical data collection while in motion.
Prototype 3: The third prototype introduced a major shift to single-board computers such as Arduino and ESP32. This version focused on testing multiple sensors to explore the system’s capability to monitor water conditions, including pH, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and temperature. This approach allowed for more flexibility, lower cost, and integration of real-time environmental monitoring features.
Prototype 4: The forth prototype marked a major upgrade with the integration of Arduino and ESP32 boards. We added various sensors to monitor water pH, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and temperature. To enhance mobility and navigation, we included a GPS module and compass sensor, allowing the SOOS to track its position and direction. A small display was also added, enabling real-time data recording and visualization directly on the device.
Product Design
To make a real device, we also looked into parts we could use. For example, single-board computers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi can work as the brain of the station. We checked GPS and Compass modules and sensors, and found they were all very affordable. We also found something called OpenCTD (conductivity, temperature, depth), an open-source Arduino-based DIY instrument at a cost of around $500, which may match the ability of a commercial CTD.
Experiments
During the qualifying competition, we shared our project with other FLL teams, and the TECHNO TITANS suggested conducting water quality experiments. Inspired by their idea, we waterproofed a pH, temperature, and TDS (total dissolved solids) sensor to test water quality at four different locations. Surprisingly, the seemingly clean swimming pool had the highest TDS, while canal water had a TDS even lower than tap water. The experiment also demonstrated that even low-cost sensors could reliably measure multiple parameters underwater. (See Video 2) For more details about the experiment, please refer to our project book.
Impact & Applications
A global network of Smart Ocean Observing Systems (SOOSs) enables real-time, accurate data collection to support ..
- Coral Protection: Detect early signs of rising temperatures and pollution to Prevent coral bleaching with timely intervention
- Glacier Tracking: Monitor glacier shifts and melting and Improve sea-level rise forecasts
- Marine Life Monitoring:Observe biodiversity and migration, Detect ecosystem changes early
- Tsunami Alerts:>Sense seismic shifts underwater and Issue faster, life-saving warnings
Acknowledgements
We thank the following experts for their valuable insights: enables real-time, accurate data collection to support ..
- Prof. Jiwei Li (ASU): Power system advice and coral bleaching application
- Prof. Xiao Wang (ASU): Shared sample analysis methods at the Mars Center
- Miss Cara Waiser (OdySea Aquarium): Explained ocean circulation and coral health
- Dr. Lanli Guo (BIO):>Discussed current water monitoring practices
- Dr. Qiang Shi (BIO):>Provided guidance on sensor placement and key measurements
