Collaborations

R.A.I.N.

Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Coalition (AZAMC)

Sail With Argo

Science Bowl

Sail with Argo

An innovative, interactive, educational resource for students, schools, and communities

What is Argo?

Arizona’s first education and research sailing vessel, Argo, is a unique, innovative educational resource for students across Arizona and beyond. Satellite communication allows researchers and crew members onboard Argo to live stream exciting oceanic and coastal research video while talking with students anywhere in the world assuring rich and inspiring learning experiences and engagement.  Students can even participate with research and conservation projects while interacting with the Argonauts as school projects to demonstrate STEM principles and lessons in real life. 

For example, students can participate operating underwater ROVs online that deploy from Argo, performing reef projects and data collection missions.

Because the experience is online, students can share their excitement with friends and family that they’re participating, reinforcing their discovered learning objectives for a lifetime.

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Sailing in the Desert

Arizona is second only to Michigan in terms of the greatest number of boats per capita in the U.S. For hot, landlocked Arizona, it’s no surprise that water activities and ocean dwelling animals like seals, penguins, sea turtles, and whales easily draw in peoples’ attention. SciTech Institute and Argo bring a truly remarkable opportunity for students everywhere to gain meaningful experiences that will inspire tomorrow’s technical workforce with the competence in STEAM skills that are so valuable to employers.

Argo is a self-contained platform that mimics the physical constraint of a space habitat.  Even any electrical power must come from its solar panels.  There is no engine to propel it – it is driven solely with wind energy.  A real-world practical conservation experience, students will witness and help the crew manage (like Apollo 13) resources from food and water, to energy and navigation; bringing into sharp focus the actual application of STEM skills to everyday life in a sustainable, responsibleobjective-driven manner.

The scope of the research and conservation missions for Argo’s five year voyage around the world has been carefully developed by leading scientists teaching at Arizona and California universities.  The missions include study of seal populations, grunion runs, sea turtle hatcheries, blue whale observation and tracking, seabird (including penguins in the Galapagos), and commercial fishing conservation enforcement.  Conservation focuses on plastics and recycling, water management, and sustainable strategies for energy, transportation, and lifestyle.

  • Argo is gaining strong public interest and already has 5 million views on social media posts. Broadcast and print media viewers and readership are excited about Argo’s mission: inspiring young people to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM), while promoting conservation and stewardship from a uniquely captivating ocean setting.
  • This brings a rare opportunity for your organization to enjoy a rapidly growing profile, providing community goodwill and leadership. Contact SciTech Institute or Argo’s Shore Support by calling objectives 623.265.8911 or emailing thorpe.seeop@gmail.com to review your bjectives and how Argo: Arizona’s Own Calyps o can meet or exceed them today!
  • Your organization’s logo will be displayed on digital platforms online and educational resources delivered to students and the public. Students that participate with actual operation of drones, ROVs, instruments and sensors, or participate in coding software utilized by Argo’s research collaborations and partners will be awarded certificates documenting their practical STEM skill. These certificates are valued by the students as an acknowledgment of their accomplishment. It is also seen as a benefit by employers, as it exemplifies a potential employee has real world practical experience in the field.

Beta Service NOW in California, then off to Mexico!

Exploration and regular live sessions with Argo begin with the new school year as the vessel completes preparations for departure to Mexico. The public is welcome to visit Argo and meet the crew in person, tour the vessel, and even go for a short sail aboard. How exciting for students and adults taking turns at the wheel or hauling up an ROV from the ocean depths!

Contact Argo’s Shore Support by calling 623-265-8911 or emailing Thorpe.seeop@gmail.com to coordinate your class for the adventure of a lifetime today!

Interested in getting involved?

Funding and in-kind donations are sought to prepare and support Argo for the new school year. Your generous contribution to Science for All, LLC, a Silver GuideStar-rated Arizona Qualifying Charitable 501(c)(3) organization, is greatly appreciated.. 
Please be sure to annotate your payment with “Set Sail with Argo.”

Email:  contactus@scitechinstitute.org

Telephone:  602.677.3770  Tax ID:  38-4033452

2800 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1530, Phoenix, Arizona 85004

Thank You for Your Support!
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