Over summer 2025, I had the opportunity to participate in the development of sensors for Earth Systems Management’s aquatic autonomous sensor platform. We investigated using green lidar to classify subsurface sediments and made strides toward understanding the feasibility of using cheap sensors for material classification and for turbidity. I developed a USB turbidity sensor and began the process of characterizing its behavior in different water bodies. I left ESM with a better understanding of the sensors, a manual recording the advancements made, a prototype turbidity sensor, and software to support continued characterization and development.