N.I.M.B.U.S Drone Project | Gannon MakerSpace

The Near-Earth Investigative Mycological and Bacteriological Ubiquity Surveyor, or N.I.M.B.U.S, is an autonomous drone created by Gannon University students, staff, and faculty to test air quality samples over Lake Erie. The project’s goal was to design a reliable and efficient drone capable of collecting environmental data to support research on local air conditions.

To meet these goals, the team established clear design requirements, focusing on lightweight construction, stable flight performance, and the ability to carry specialized sensors for sampling. Most components of the drone were designed and 3D printed at Gannon University’s MakerSpace, using a mix of durable and lightweight materials. Additional parts were CNC-machined for precision, and the electronics were carefully integrated to ensure smooth operation and control.

The development process included several design iterations, where students tested early prototypes, analyzed flight results, and made continuous improvements to enhance stability and performance. Once finalized, all components were assembled into the complete drone, with the electronics, software, and flight controller configured for autonomous operation.

N.I.M.B.U.S successfully completed multiple flight tests, proving its ability to gather accurate air quality data while maintaining steady performance. This project perfectly represented months of teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. It stands as a great example of how at the Gannon MakerSpace we use modern tools and hands-on learning to create technology that contributes to real-world environmental research.

NIMBUS Team