NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Pontchartrain Conservancy is hosting its annual Underwater Robotics remotely operated vehicle (ROV) expo at the New Canal Lighthouse July 14 – 18. This family-friendly event will feature six activities each day, designed to inspire curiosity about Lake Pontchartrain and STEM learning.
“Our annual expo gives the public a chance to learn more about what Pontchartrain Conservancy does across the 16 parishes that make up the basin,” said Kristi Trail, executive director of Pontchartrain Conservancy. “Our expert team is excited to show attendees how fun science can be through interactive ROV demonstrations and hands-on STEM activities.”
Daily Activities (no registration required, available each day from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- DASH Robots: Learn the basics of programming and problem-solving by guiding DASH robots through a course and completing challenges. Participants will discover how coding helps robots navigate obstacles and complete tasks.
- ROV Challenges: Pilot ROVs while taking part in robot soccer and magnet fishing challenges that put driving skills to the test.
- Underwater Camera Station: Use underwater cameras in the lake to observe aquatic life and get a closer look at what’s happening beneath the water’s surface.
- Coral Art Project: Create colorful coral-inspired artwork while learning about the importance of coral ecosystems and marine habitats.
- Snap Circuits & Makey Makey: Build circuits, create interactive projects and explore how electronics, engineering and coding work together.
- Hydraulic Arm: Discover how hydraulics power machines and operate a hydraulic arm through hands-on challenges.
Admission for the expo’s daily activities is $15 per person and includes access to the New Canal Lighthouse Museum.
For more information about the event, please visit scienceforourcoast.org/events
