The San Diego Argonauts are developing a series of hands-on STEM education programs that introduce students to engineering, robotics, electronics, programming, design, and marine technology through real-world marine projects.
We are currently working with several San Diego-area high school STEM, robotics, engineering, and maker programs to develop and launch these initiatives. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of engineers, makers, inventors, and sailors while teaching practical skills that combine mechanical engineering, electronics, software, fabrication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Programs can be adapted for classroom instruction, after-school programs, robotics and engineering clubs, maker programs, and other hands-on learning environments.
Our programs are organized into four learning tracks.
Track A — Robo-Buoy (RC)
Radio-Controlled Buoy with Mechanical Anchor
This introductory robotics project teaches students how to design and build a remotely operated buoy capable of deploying and retrieving an anchor.
Students gain experience with:
Radio control systems, Mechanical design, Electric motors and gearboxes, Battery systems, Waterproof construction, CAD and fabrication techniques, Testing and troubleshooting.
The Robo-Buoy serves as an excellent first engineering project that combines mechanics, electronics, and problem-solving.
Typical program length: 40–100 hours.
More info: here & here.
Track B — Robo-Buoy (GPS)
GPS-Controlled Autonomous Buoy (No Anchor)
This more advanced project introduces students to autonomous navigation and marine robotics.
Students learn how modern autonomous marine systems use GPS, sensors, software, and waypoint-based navigation to operate without direct radio control.
Topics include:
GPS navigation, Autonomous control, Sensors, Navigation algorithm, Marine electronics, Power management, Mission planning.
This project provides an excellent introduction to autonomous robotics and unmanned marine vehicles while building on many of the engineering principles introduced in Track A.
Typical program length: 40–100 hours.
More info: here & here.
Track C — Build-and-Sail a DF95 Sailboat
Students assemble, tune, and sail one of the world’s most popular radio-controlled racing sailboats: the DragonFlite 95 (DF95).
Throughout the project, they learn:
Sailboat construction, Mechanical assembly, RC Radio binding & installation, Sail tuning, Boat balance, Wind awareness, Basic sailing fundamentals, Basic racing strategy.
Once completed, students learn to sail their own boats at the San Diego Model Boat Pond and are encouraged to participate in club races and events.
In addition to engineering and fabrication skills, this track introduces students to the physics of sailing and provides an opportunity to develop their skills on the water.
Typical program length: 40–100 hours.
More info: here, here & here.
Track D — Complex Marine Engineering Projects
For students ready to move beyond structured projects and take on a greater engineering challenge, we offer opportunities to design and build more sophisticated custom marine vessels and systems.
Possible projects include:
Scale ships
Autonomous surface vessels
Working tugboats
Research vessels
Hydrofoils
Rescue boats
Airboats
Electric propulsion systems
Steam engines
Experimental marine robotics
These projects can incorporate mechanical engineering, electronics, software, CAD, fabrication, propulsion, control systems, and other disciplines depending on the project selected.
Projects are tailored to each school’s interests, available resources, and the experience level of participating students.
Typical program length: 40–100+ hours.
Interested in Working With Us?
We welcome conversations with schools, teachers, STEM and robotics programs, students, mentors, volunteers, and potential sponsors interested in helping us develop and deliver these programs.
If you would like to explore bringing one of these programs to your school or organization—or would like to contribute your expertise—please reach out through our Contact Page.
Or simply stop by the San Diego Model Boat Pond on a Wednesday or Saturday and ask for Jeff Sparksworthy or Kerim Baran.