RESEARCH AND INSPIRATIONS: 

this section should include ideas, quotes, snippets of readings, embedded videos, inspirational images, links related to the course or a current assignment/project

https://climate.nasa.gov

https://tools.wmflabs.org/geohack/geohack.php?pagename=Arapaho_Glacier&params=40_01_24_N_105_38_52_W_region:US-CO_type:glacier

https://www.reynoldsam.com/denver/

ARAPAHO GLACIER MELT, COLORADO (1898-2003)

Arapaho Glacier has shrunk dramatically since it was photographed in 1898. Measurements collected since 1960 suggest the glacier has thinned by at least 40 meters since then; thinning between 1898 and 1960 is unknown but is probably considerably greater than 40 meters.

Arapahoe is also considered a cirque glacier because of the mountain basin it sits in. Arapaho is the largest glacier in Colorado, but it is tiny by world standards as it is only about a quarter-mile (0.4 kilometers) long, a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) wide, and approximately 15 feet (4.6 meters) thick.

Arapaho Glacier serves as a water source for the city of Boulder. Many glacier around the world are important water sources for communities which adds another level of complexity to the necessity of glaciers.

1898 photo taken by R. S. Brackett, published in “Arapaho Glacier: A Sixty Year Record,” University of Colorado Studies, Series in Geology, No. 3, R. S. Waldrop (1964). 2003 photo taken by Tad Pfeffer. Images courtesy of Tad Pfeffer, Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado.

Arapaho Glacier Melt

“Arapaho Glacier lost 52% of its area during the 20th century, decreasing from 0.34 to 0.16 km2 […] Its maximum thickness is approximately 15 m. If recent trends in area loss continue, Arapaho Glacier may disappear in as few as 65 years” (Haugen et al, 2010).

PROGRESS AND PROCESS:

this section should include in-progress images of projects and assignments, scanned sketches, descriptions of progress

WATER. We are unable to maintain and sustain human life without water. It is a fundamentally important part of our lives, yet is disappearing across the globe from our Anthropocene. I decided to focus on Arapaho Glacier. Through my research, I learned of the Glacier’s contribution to water supply in Boulder. Arapaho Glacier increased my awareness of the importance of not only the artic glaciers but the land-locked cirque glaciers as well. This largely unseen glacier can be accessed via hiking trails, but as it is tucked away in the mountains, the melting continues in silence. Out of sight, out of mind.

Through research of the area, I was able to get abstract data/statistics. I sampled a heightmap of the area in hopes of developing a site elevation of the Arapaho Glacier area. I applied for an education license with Cinema 4D to complete this process. I have been approved for a student license but am waiting for the password information. I also did a few rough renders of iceberg shapes. These will likely need to be 3D printed and used as models for the wax mold making. I purchased a heating element, to be used to heat a yet undisclosed surface. I was considering the creation of an acrylic box but am concerned the seams will melt apart when heated to the wax melting point.
This week involved lots of research and purchasing of supplies.
  • Paraffin Wax melting point = approx. 130 degrees
  • Acrylic Sheet melting point = can be used continuously in a temperature range of 170-190°F. It begins to soften between 210-220°F and starts to melt between 300-315°F. Acrylic sheet can withstand temperatures down to -20°F without noticeable changes in properties.
  • Heating Mat = Silicone Rubber 12 x 12, 240v. Thermostat adjustment from 50-425 F.
  • Fossils = 3D fossil kits. it’s a surprise!
  • Adafruit order

2 x TTL Serial JPEG Camera with NTSC Video[ID:397] = $79.90
2 x Miniature TTL Serial JPEG Camera with NTSC Video[ID:1386] = $71.90
1 x PIR (motion) sensor[ID:189] = $9.95
2 x Vibrating Mini Motor Disc[ID:1201] = $3.90

1 x Adafruit Parts Pal[ID:2975] = $19.95
1 x Adafruit Perma-Proto Half-sized Breadboard PCB – Single[ID:1609] = $0.00

REFLECTION:

this section should include what you accomplished that week

Meshmixer broke! My access to Meshmixer was hampered this week. This is something I need help to resolve. Next steps are:

  • Fix meshmixer
  • Order wax
  • Create 3D forms
  • Order wax/molds
  • Visit Plasticare to discuss acrylic/glass melting surface. (elevated to hide temperature controls)

SIDE NOTE: THE SNEEZE