Vernier Adds New Sensors to Environmental Science Equipment

Scientific data collection company Vernier Science Education recently rolled out two new sensors to its lineup of equipment for high school and college environmental science. The 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."

For more information, visit Vernier's environmental science page.

About the Author

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

Featured

  • digital illustration of a glowing padlock at the center, surrounded by abstract icons of books and graduation caps

    2025 Cybersecurity Predictions for K-20 Education

    What should K-12 and higher education institutions expect on the cybersecurity front in the coming year? Here's what the experts told us.

  • glowing AI text box emerges from a keyboard on a desk, surrounded by floating padlocks, warning icons, and fragmented shields

    Study: 1 in 10 AI Prompts Could Expose Sensitive Data

    Nearly one in 10 prompts used by business users when interacting with generative artificial intelligence tools may inadvertently disclose sensitive data, according to a study released by data protection startup Harmonic Security Inc.

  • Stock market graphs and candlesticks breaking apart with glass-like cracks

    Chinese Startup DeepSeek Disrupts AI Market

    A new low-cost Chinese artificial intelligence model is wreaking havoc in the technology sector, with tech stocks plummeting globally as concerns grow over the potential disruption it could cause.

  • Abstract widescreen image with geometric shapes, flowing lines, and digital elements like graphs and data points in soft blue and white gradients.

    5 Trends to Watch in Higher Education for 2025

    In 2025, the trends shaping higher education reflect a continuous transformation of the higher education landscape to meet the changing needs of students and staff, while maintaining sustainable and cost-effective institutional practices.