Lisha Kill eighth grade students stepped inside the University at Albany’s Mobile Laboratory to explore research-grade instruments on Wednesday, May 27. 

The Atmospheric Sciences Research Center (ASRC) team talked to students about air pollution, explained how pollutants are measured, demonstrated how the instruments worked, and guided students through small hands-on activities using simple air-quality sensors.

“Having the SUNY atmospheric science mobile lab visit our middle schoolers was an incredible experience,” said Janae Blair, science supervisor. “It connected the concepts presented in class directly to the air we breathe, showing our young scientists how vital this work is to public health and future careers in science.” 

The mobile lab visited both South Colonie Middle Schools as part of a continued effort to expand access to hands-on STEAM learning opportunities. This experience provided students with an opportunity to develop critical skills in asking questions, analyzing data, using models, and communicating through evidence-based reasoning.