64th Annual STS (2004-2005)
Finalists
Aaron Sargent Goldin

CALIFORNIA
Aaron Sargent Goldin, 17, of Encinitas, designed, built of scavenged parts and ocean-tested a new technology that converts the energy of surface waves directly into electricity for his Intel Science Talent Search project in engineering. Aaron's invention, the Gyro-Gen, uses a gyroscope's tendency to react to disturbing torque by precessing - turning of the axis of spin - to move a crank arm and turn a generator. When it is sealed in a buoy, wave action provides the disturbing torque, and the Gyro-Gen can generate enough electricity to run itself and an additional load. Aaron has applied for a patent for his invention, which he believes can be the basis of a practical, nonpolluting, renewable energy source. Aaron attends San Dieguito High School Academy where he is editor of the school literary magazine and plays trombone in a student jazz group, Band in Black. He has performed with the North Coast Symphony Orchestra and enjoys improvisational piano composition. Aaron's many honors include the Rensselaer Medal and a First Place Grand Award for Engineering at the 2004 Intel ISEF. The son of Michael and Linda Goldin, he plans to study physics or engineering and become a college professor.