Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a method to transform coarse satellite soil moisture data into high-resolution, field-scale maps. The technology integrates vegetation, terrain, soil, and weather data to better reflect real-world conditions. It improves decision-making for water management, land management, and mobility planning. The model has been validated across diverse landscapes from Australia to Northern Colorado.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a board game that simulates the journey of sperm through the female reproductive tract. Players progress through anatomical regions by answering concept-based questions tied to reproductive physiology. The game integrates question cards and event-based challenges to reinforce learning in an interactive, hands-on format. It is designed to enhance engagement and comprehension in large lecture settings where lab access may be limited.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a Smart Well Device and Multimodal System for real-time monitoring of biological samples and cellular activity. The platform combines sensor-enabled smart well plates with integrated environmental control, microscopy, and wireless data collection in a single system. Miniature sensors inside each well can simultaneously monitor multiple analytes, including oxygen, glucose, lactate, and pH. The system also supports optical imaging and customizable sensor configurations for a wide range of biological and biomedical research applications.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed an underground sensor network to measure soil moisture by quantifying how changes in soil water content affect the attenuation of radio signals between buried sensor nodes. The network can provide highly granular soil data with minimal infrastructure. The sensors are low-cost and easy to deploy across large areas. Data is transmitted to the cloud, enabling remote monitoring and smarter water management decisions.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a wearable monitor called the AirPen™ that measures personal exposure to air pollution. The device tracks both airborne particles and gases at the same time. It is small, quiet, and easy to wear during daily activities. Recent studies show it can monitor many people at once, even across an entire workplace in a single day. This helps improve how we understand where and when people are exposed to pollution.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new blood-based method to distinguish early Lyme disease from Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI). The approach analyzes small molecules in patient blood to detect unique disease signatures. It achieves up to 98% accuracy when classifying these conditions. This method provides a more reliable way to support early diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a lightweight and energy-efficient gripper that allows aerial robots to perch and grasp objects such as trees, roofs, and power lines. The mechanism helps drones conserve power by resting at elevated locations instead of continuously hovering. The gripper is easy to activate, stable while holding weight, and adaptable for different robot sizes and payloads. Built from low-cost 3D-printed materials and flexible joints, the design supports rapid customization and economical manufacturing.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a miniature walking robot that can be fully fabricated in a single 3D printing process using both rigid and soft materials. The technology uses flexible soft joints and links to improve robot durability and simplify manufacturing. The robot is powered by a single DC motor and can walk using a lightweight leg mechanism designed through a new numerical modeling approach. By eliminating manual assembly, the system can reduce fabrication time, labor, and production costs for small robotic systems.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new chemical method to produce a key biodegradable plastic with properties suitable for real-world use. This approach creates poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB) with high structural uniformity and strong material performance. The process operates under mild conditions and produces polymers quickly and efficiently. By using bio-derived starting materials, this method supports more sustainable plastic production.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed an improved dual-polarization rainfall estimation method based on region-based hydrometeor classification. This approach uses spatial patterns in radar data to produce more stable and accurate rainfall measurements, reducing noise, and improving reliability even when data quality is low. Testing shows outperforming both single-polarization and dual-polarization techniques. The system is designed for real-world, operational weather monitoring.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed Pueblo Primrose, a compact ornamental chile pepper that grows 12–16 inches tall. Its 1.5-inch round peppers mature through a range of colors, from cream to yellow, orange, and red, adding dynamic visual interest to gardens. Pueblo Primrose combines unique height, open growth, and large, colorful fruit to enhance ornamental plantings.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a compact sensor that directly measures nano- to micro-scale airborne particles. The device captures particles in real time without needing multiple instruments or lab analysis. It improves detection of the smallest, most harmful particles that are often missed by existing tools. Its lightweight design makes it practical for everyday use in the field.