The Smartfin project was highlighted in a ThisWeek@UCSD article. The Smartfin holds a microcontroller, temperature sensor, inertial measurement unit, and wireless radio — all embedded into a surfboard fin. This allows surfers to opportunistically gather oceanographic data in the near-shore environment, which is otherwise challenging for more traditionally sensors on buoys and moorings. Engineers for Exploration students are working this summer as part of the NSF-funded REU Site to solidify the data collection process, and develop in-house ability to manufacture Smartfins in a low-cost and open-source manner.