STEM projects

Optimizing Electromagnetic Mass Driver Technology for Launch Efficiency:

A Novel Approach to Innovating Space Travel

This project pioneers a novel approach to sustainable space launch technology by leveraging electromagnetic propulsion in place of traditional chemical methods. The system is designed to accelerate payloads using precisely controlled magnetic forces, offering the potential to drastically reduce emissions while improving efficiency. The research focuses on optimizing key performance factors such as velocity, range, and energy management, with an emphasis on design innovation and precision control. By refining core components and system architecture, this work pushes the boundaries of what's possible in clean, compact launch platforms.

Through systematic experimentation and data analysis, the project identifies critical performance drivers and evaluates the impact of design variables on overall system output. Findings demonstrate clear pathways toward improving propulsion strength while maintaining stability and minimizing thermal load. This work not only showcases the feasibility of electromagnetic launch systems on a small scale, but also lays the foundation for scalable, next-generation solutions in aerospace transportation. It represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of greener, safer, and more cost-effective access to space.

Recognition

• 2025 National STEM Champion

• PocketLab Insight & Inspiration Award

• Invention Convention National Finalist

Exploring the Potential of Milk and Sugar-Based Biodegradable Plastics:

A Sustainable Alternative to Synthetic

To address the growing environmental impact of synthetic plastic waste, it's essential to explore sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives that reduce our reliance on traditional, petroleum-based plastics. In my project, I developed a biodegradable plastic using a combination of sugar and milk, a renewable and accessible alternative that offers a promising solution to plastic pollution. My research revealed that the type of milk and the amount of sugar used significantly influenced the quality, strength, and overall durability of the plastic. For example, plastics made with whole milk, which contains a higher concentration of casein, and a greater amount of sugar, resulted in a 35% stronger plastic than those made with skim milk.

Additionally, this biodegradable plastic degrades 50% faster in industrial composting environments compared to conventional synthetic plastics. This discovery highlights the potential to replace harmful plastics with more environmentally friendly options, reducing pollution and limiting our dependence on non-renewable resources. If implemented on a larger scale, this innovation could play a critical role in transforming the plastics industry, promoting a cleaner, more sustainable future for the planet.

Recognition

• 2024 National STEM Champion

• 1st place in the 2024 Thomas Jefferson High School For Science and Technology Invitational Science Fair

Enhancing Visual Accessibility for the Colorblind:

A Smartphone-Based System for Image Capture and Intelligent Color Identification

ColorSnap is a cutting-edge app designed to assist colorblind individuals in navigating the world of colors with ease. Inspired by my colorblind cousin, who often struggled with everyday tasks like matching clothes and interpreting color-coded information, I wanted to create a practical and reliable solution that could make a difference. With more than 350 million colorblind people worldwide—a number that continues to rise each year due to population growth—there is a growing need for accessible tools that simplify life for those who face these challenges. The app’s core functionality is simple yet powerful. Users can snap a photo of any scene or object and then tap anywhere on the image to instantly receive both the name of the color and its corresponding RGB code. With an impressive 98% accuracy, ColorSnap uses state-of-the-art image processing algorithms to ensure the colors are correctly identified, offering colorblind users an accurate and intuitive way to engage with their environment.

This app isn’t just a tool for colorblind individuals it’s a step toward making the world more inclusive. Whether it's helping someone distinguish between different shades of clothing, correctly identifying colors on signs or charts, or simply adding clarity to the colors of the natural world, ColorSnap makes life simpler. Additionally, the app is lightweight, easy to use, and available at the tap of a button, allowing users to carry a personal color assistant in their pocket wherever they go. As someone passionate about solving real-world problems through innovation, ColorSnap represents my commitment to making a meaningful impact on everyday lives.