The Astro Pi computers
What is an Astro Pi computer?
An Astro Pi computer is a Raspberry Pi computer equipped with sensors and housed in a special case. Raspberry Pi is a very affordable credit-card-sized bare-bones computer, great for use in education.
Astro Pi Izzy
Teams that choose to investigate ‘Life on Earth’ will use the Astro Pi computer known as “Izzy” to investigate life on the planet’s surface. Izzy has multiple sensors and a near-infrared camera (with a blue optical filter) that faces out of a window in the ISS and is pointed at Earth. Experiment ideas should make use of Izzy’s camera; use of the sensors is optional.
Astro Pi Ed
Teams that choose to investigate ‘Life in space” will use the Astro Pi computer known as “Ed” to investigate life inside the Columbus module. Experiment ideas should make use of Ed’s LED matrix and at least one of its sensors, which include a visible-light camera. This camera is not permitted to take photos or record videos inside the module, but you may use its camera as a sensor to take data readings.
Hardware
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi is a very affordable credit card sized bare-bones computer, great for use in education.
Sense HAT
Raspberry Pi Sense HAT sits on top of the Raspberry Pi computer and includes a range of sensors, such as a gyroscope and temperature sensor.
Raspberry Pi Camera Module
The Camera Module is part of Ed. The Camera Module can be used to take high-definition video, as well as still photographs.
Raspberry Pi NoIR Camera Module
The Infrared Camera Module (Pi NoIR) is part of Astro Pi Izzy. This Camera Module gives you the ability to see in the dark.
Flight case
The flight case is made from 6063-grade aluminium. Only eight cases were ever produced, but you can 3D print your own case!
