Studying STEM | Inspiring Solar Vehicles | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

STEM subjects like science and engineering have led to innovative developments in renewable energy, such as solar-powered vehicles like Solar Impulse and Sunrider. Young people are encouraged to pursue STEM subjects and explore the limitless possibilities they offer.

Key Insights

• ✊ Solar Impulse's circumnavigation of the globe using only solar power demonstrates the potential of renewable energy technology in aviation.
• 😤 The journey of the Cardiff University team in 1986 showcased early achievements in solar-powered transportation.
• ✊ Cambridge University's Evolution successfully completed a journey across the Australian Outback, highlighting the advancements in solar-powered vehicle design.
• 👯 STEM subjects provide opportunities for young people to contribute to groundbreaking projects and create innovative solutions.
• ✊ Solar-powered vehicles require not only technical expertise but also resourcefulness and problem-solving skills.
• ✊ Renewable energy technologies, such as solar power, have the potential to revolutionize transportation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• ✊ Overcoming challenges and improvising solutions are crucial aspects of developing and operating solar-powered vehicles.

Transcript

STEM subjects science technology engineering and mathematics they are so much more than just sitting and latches and solving equations renewable energy is a feel that is constantly changing and evolving with new technology ideas that just seemed like crazy concepts a few decades ago are being realized today one such project that got me really excit... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What is Solar Impulse and what does its circumnavigation of the globe signify?

Solar Impulse is a solar-powered plane that is completing a journey around the world using only solar power. This feat demonstrates the advancements in renewable energy technology and the potential for sustainable transportation.

Q: What was the purpose of the journey made by the Cardiff University team in 1986?

The Cardiff University team's journey from Athens to Lisbon in their solar-powered car, Sunrider, aimed to showcase the capabilities of solar power and inspire further development in renewable energy transportation.

Q: What challenges did the Cambridge University team face during their journey across the Australian Outback?

The Cambridge University team encountered motor troubles just before the race, but fortunately, a team from the Netherlands lent them a spare motor. Additionally, the team had to improvise and create a new cylinder head gasket for their scooter out of a Fanta can.

Q: What advice do the teams give to students interested in STEM subjects?

The teams encourage students to pursue STEM subjects and engage in projects where they can explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible. They emphasize that STEM subjects require creativity and can lead to exciting opportunities.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Solar Impulse, a solar-powered plane, is about to complete its circumnavigation of the globe using only solar power, showcasing the advancements in renewable energy technology.

• In 1986, a team from Cardiff University created a solar-powered car called Sunrider and drove it from Athens to Lisbon, illustrating the potential of solar power.

• The Cambridge University team built a more modern solar-powered car, Evolution, which completed a 2,427-kilometer journey across the Australian Outback in 2015, highlighting the progress made in solar-powered vehicle design.