Welcome to the GEOS 440 Team 1 webpage for the Fall 2022 semester.


Team members: Kate, Katriya, Lauri, and Amanda

Sensor: Adafruit model GUVA S12Sd

Summary: For our project we will be measuring the UV Index (or ultraviolet index) at 2 different locations using the Adafruit model GUVA S12Sd. This sensor has a UV photodiode that detects a majority of the UVA and UVB spectrum and provides us with an analog voltage output. We programmed the sensor to calculate the UV index by dividing the output voltage by 0.1 volts. The instruments will be placed in a sunny location then a shaded area. Both sensors will be collecting shade versus full sun data on the same day at the same time in order to compare differences in precision and accuracy. After collecting our data, we can compare it to a reliable source like the sensor on the science building. The index predicts UV intensity levels on a scale of 1-11+, where 1 indicates minimal risk of overexposure and 11+ means a very high risk. This will allow us to see how accurate our sensors are and the differences in the UV Index of shade and sun.

UV index is vital to human life as overexposure to UV radiation can be harmful to humans. The increasing scale corresponds to the constant decrease in time to sunburn. In moderation the exposure to UV helps the body create vitamin D but when over exposure occurs it can cause long term damage. In skin cells the overexposure can cause basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. In addition, it can also cause blinding eye diseases as well as premature aging.

Return to F22 ERTH 440 page
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