
<p><img class=" alignright size-full wp-image-1041" src="http://schoolnewsnz.fastrackdev.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/SND07-wk1-Seismometer_300x225.jpg" alt="SND07-wk1-Seismometer 300x225" style="margin: 5px; float: right;" width="300" height="225" />An earthquake monitoring device for schools has been installed at Rangi Ruru Girls&#8217; School in Christchurch as part of a University of Auckland outreach programme to show high school-aged students the wonders of science.</p>
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<p>The monitoring device, called the TC1, was designed and developed by Department of Physics senior lecturer Dr Kasper van Wijk in collaboration with Boise State University in the US.</p>
<p>The vertical seismometer sits within a glass case so that its inner workings can be clearly seen and it registers earthquakes of 4 and higher locally, and 6 or higher worldwide. It follows the principle of open hardware and software so that schools can install them themselves.</p>
<p>Dr van Wijk says the beauty of the seismometer is its simple and sturdy design, joking that it is suitable for &#8220;kids of all ages, from five to 80.</p>
<p>&#8220;More traditional seismometers are horizontal while the TC1 is vertical but we needed a device that could withstand a bit of rough and tumble in the classroom and this one is simple and robust while also having a meaningful level of detection.&#8221;</p>
<p>Seismic activity is displayed on a large screen, with vertical lines jumping suddenly to show earthquake activity. Groups of people jumping in unison are able to watch the screen register violent motion.</p>
<p>The seismometers are being installed in schools nationwide through the University of Auckland&#8217;s Seismometers in Schools programme.</p>
<p>&#8220;This device is able to give students a real sense of how data works in real-time and is really valuable in teaching the geophysics behind earthquakes and the sensors that detect them,&#8221; Dr van Wijk says.</p>
<p>Rangi Ruru principal Julie Moor says the partnership with the university is an exciting one and important in encouraging girls to see science as a viable and exciting career.</p>

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