PASCO Scientific
Roseville, CA science education company founded 1964 by Paul Stokstad; makes wireless sensors, Smart Cart, SPARKvue/Capstone software, and PASCObot robotics.
PASCO Scientific is a science education technology company founded in 1964 by Paul Stokstad (1944-2024) and headquartered in Roseville, California. The company began as a science fair project built in a college dorm room, expanded into a family garage, and grew into a medium-sized company with approximately 200 employees serving educators and students in more than 100 countries. PASCO is ISO 9001 certified.
The company's first commercial product was the PASCO Millikan Oil Drop Apparatus, which set the company's founding principle: to create innovative products that exceed existing offerings or introduce entirely new tools to the marketplace. Over the following decades PASCO became one of the first companies to offer integrated sensor-interface-software data logging systems for educational laboratories, establishing a category it continues to lead.
The core product portfolio spans several major lines. The wireless sensor range includes motion sensors, force sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, voltage sensors, and many specialty sensors for physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science — all designed to stream data directly to student devices without cables. The Smart Cart is a wireless cart with built-in sensors that replaced traditional cart-and-separate-sensor setups in physics labs. Data collection and analysis is handled by two primary software platforms: PASCO Capstone (for college and university labs) and SPARKvue (cross-platform for K-12 and mobile use). ChemVue is a dedicated platform for chemistry instruction.
The STEM Sense Solutions line targets K-12 STEM integration with three product families: Coding with Sensors (integrating physical sensors with block-based and text programming environments), Sense and Control (actuator-sensor feedback systems), and Build Your Own (component kits). The PASCObot is a programmable robot that combines real-time data collection with coding and robotics education, allowing students to blend STEM disciplines in hands-on projects.
Curriculum offerings include complete experiment packages, lab manuals, teacher guides, equipment bundles, and the PASCO Academy digital curriculum platform, covering physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, and engineering from elementary through university level. Materials exist for Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and 3D learning frameworks.
PASCO serves individual teachers as well as national ministries of education implementing country-wide science curriculum reforms. The company maintains partnerships with Activity-Based Physics, the GLOBE Program, and ESRI/ArcGIS for environmental data integration.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
PASCO Smart Cart
Wireless physics lab cart with built-in force, position, and acceleration sensors; streams real-time data via Bluetooth to SPARKvue and Capstone software for dynamics and mechanics experiments.
SPARKvue
Cross-platform science data collection and analysis software connecting PASCO wireless sensors to iOS, Android, Chromebook, and Windows devices for K-12 through university lab use.
Contact PASCO Scientific
WEBSITE
https://www.pasco.comPHONE
1-916-786-3800HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1964
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
Certifications & Memberships
Microsoft Discloses CVSS 10.0 Vulnerability in Microsoft Entra ID Despite No User Action Required
Microsoft announced a critical vulnerability, CVE-2026-69836, in Microsoft Entra ID on August 20, 2026. The vulnerability, rated CVSS 10.0, allows for remote code execution but has already been mitigated by Microsoft, requiring no action from users. The disclosure is significant as it reflects Microsoft's commitment to transparency regarding security issues in its cloud services. Although users do not need to take any action, the company aims to keep them informed about the security status of their services. Looking ahead, it will be important to monitor how Microsoft continues to handle vulnerability disclosures and whether this approach influences user trust and security practices in cloud services. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
2026 WRC Highlights Robotics Industry's Shift Towards Data-Driven Intelligence
The 2026 World Robot Conference (WRC) opened in Beijing on August 19, showcasing over 2,000 exhibits from more than 300 companies, including 150 new products. Notable demonstrations included TianGong Omni's pole walking and Yaskawa's cable assembly robots. However, the event highlighted a critical shortage of high-quality training data for robots, with only 22 types of embodiments and over one million real trajectories available publicly. The significance of this shortage lies in the growing demand for robots to prove their capabilities through real-world experience rather than mere demonstrations. The conference emphasized the importance of data-driven embodied intelligence, marking 2026 as a pivotal year for this sector. Companies are increasingly focusing on gathering extensive human behavior data, with Lightwheel Intelligent and JD.com leading efforts to collect millions of hours of data to enhance robotic training. Looking ahead, the robotics industry is witnessing a shift towards creating a robust data ecosystem to support robotic learning. The emergence of companies like Mifeng Technology, which showcased its MEgo Gripper and MEgo View, reflects a trend towards data collection without traditional robotic embodiments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics Data-Driven Intelligence AI Training Industrial Automation
Galaxy Corporation Envisions Robot Idols as Future K-pop Superstars
Galaxy Corporation is pioneering the integration of physical AI into South Korea's entertainment sector, aiming to create the next generation of K-pop idols. This innovative approach could redefine celebrity culture and fan engagement in the music industry. The significance of this development lies in the potential for robot idols to attract a new audience and reshape the dynamics of K-pop fandom. By leveraging advanced AI technologies, Galaxy Corporation is positioning itself at the forefront of a transformative trend within the entertainment landscape. As the industry evolves, observers should monitor Galaxy Corporation's progress and the public's reception of robot idols. The success of this initiative could influence future investments and innovations in the entertainment sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
World Humanoid Robot Games 2.0 Concludes in Beijing with Focus on Real-World Applications
The second edition of the World Humanoid Robot Games concluded at Beijing's Ice Ribbon, featuring 666 teams and 2,056 robots competing in 51 events. This year's focus shifted from merely achieving speed to demonstrating dexterity and autonomy in real-world scenarios. This evolution in the competition highlights the growing importance of practical applications for humanoid robots, moving beyond traditional speed tests. The emphasis on real-scenario work reflects industry trends toward developing robots capable of performing complex tasks in everyday environments. Looking ahead, the outcomes of these games may influence future designs and functionalities of humanoid robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Collins Aerospace Completes Altitude Testing of Enhanced Power and Cooling System for F-35
Collins Aerospace has successfully completed altitude testing of its Enhanced Power and Cooling System (EPACS) for the F-35 jet. This new system is designed to enhance the thermal capacity of the aircraft, enabling it to support future technology upgrades. The testing involved simulating various mission demands and altitude conditions to evaluate the system's performance. The significance of EPACS lies in its ability to meet the increasing thermal and power demands of modern aircraft electronics. As new sensors and mission systems are integrated into the F-35, they generate more heat and require additional electrical power. EPACS aims to provide the necessary thermal margin to accommodate these upgrades without exceeding the aircraft's thermal limits. Looking ahead, the successful altitude testing marks a critical milestone in the development of EPACS, increasing confidence in its performance under real-world conditions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
TianGong Robotics' Omni Wins 400m Race at World Humanoid Robot Games
The TianGong Robotics-developed humanoid robot, Omni, has gained attention for its unique running style, reminiscent of the 'Abnormal Titan' from the anime 'Attack on Titan'. On August 23, during the 400m race of the 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, Omni recorded a winning time of 45.66 seconds. This victory is significant as it showcases advancements in humanoid robotics, particularly in speed and agility. The robot's running technique, which involves swinging its arms and leaning into turns, has sparked discussions on social media, with users noting its unusual yet effective form. Analysts have pointed out the technical aspects of its movement, suggesting that its design optimizes balance and aerodynamics. Looking ahead, TianGong Robotics aims to utilize the Omni for various applications, including household assistance and monitoring. Additionally, their larger humanoid robot, the TianGong Ultra, made headlines by recording a preliminary time of 9.32 seconds in the 100m event, surpassing Usain Bolt's world record pace, indicating a competitive edge in robotic speed.
Li-S Energy's Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Enter US Army Testing for Drone Applications
Li-S Energy, an Australian battery developer, has delivered lithium-sulfur battery cells to the US Army for independent testing. This marks the first instance of the company's technology being evaluated by a US government agency, specifically by the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command C5ISR Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The significance of this testing lies in the potential for lithium-sulfur batteries to enhance military operations that increasingly depend on drones and autonomous systems. With nearly double the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries, these cells could enable unmanned platforms to achieve longer flight times, greater ranges, and increased payload capacities, which are critical for modern military applications. Looking ahead, the evaluation by the DEVCOM C5ISR Center could pave the way for the integration of Li-S Energy's technology into various military programs, including unmanned aircraft and ground robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Energy Military
XPeng Motors' Dogotix Secures $900 Million for IRON Humanoid Robot Development
XPeng Motors announced that its Dogotix robotics unit has successfully raised over $900 million in its initial funding round, achieving a post-transaction valuation exceeding $6.3 billion. This funding will be utilized to enhance the development of hardware and software for the IRON humanoid robot, as well as to establish mass-production facilities and expand globally. The significance of this funding lies in XPeng's ambition to become a leader in AI mobility, with plans to produce 1,000 IRON humanoids monthly by the end of 2026. The humanoid robot is designed for applications in retail and industrial environments, with commercial deliveries expected to commence in 2027. This move aligns with a broader trend among automakers venturing into humanoid robotics, highlighting the growing market potential. Looking ahead, XPeng's Dogotix aims to leverage this investment to advance its robotics capabilities, while also facing competition from other automakers like Hyundai and Tesla, who are also developing humanoid robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Automotive China Humanoids Investments Manufacturing News
Current Status of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, China
The World Humanoid Robot Games are currently taking place in Beijing, China, utilizing a stadium that was previously used for the 2022 Winter Olympics. This event showcases advanced humanoid robots that have demonstrated capabilities surpassing those of elite human athletes in speed and agility. The significance of these games lies in their ability to highlight the rapid advancements in robotics technology, particularly in humanoid design and performance. The robots' ability to outperform top Olympians in running and jumping illustrates the potential for robotics to revolutionize various sectors, including sports and entertainment. As the event progresses, observers should pay attention to the innovations presented by participating teams and the implications for future developments in robotics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
The Role of LiDAR in Enhancing Safety for DJI Drones
DJI has integrated LiDAR technology into its latest consumer drones, including the Air 3S, Mavic 4 Pro, Mini 5 Pro, and Neo 2, primarily to enhance flight safety. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new regulations that classify certain foreign-made drones with advanced technologies like LiDAR as 'military-grade,' raising concerns for DJI. LiDAR technology provides a significant advantage over traditional cameras, especially in low-light conditions. While cameras rely on ambient light to detect obstacles, LiDAR emits laser pulses to create a detailed map of the environment, allowing drones to navigate safely even at night. This capability is crucial for preventing crashes and ensuring safe returns during flights. As regulatory scrutiny increases, it will be important to monitor how these proposed rules impact DJI and its use of LiDAR technology. The focus on flight safety rather than military applications may shape future developments in drone technology and regulations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News
ROBOTTODAY Weekly April 5 – 11, 2026
This week in robotics: UniX AI’s Panther becomes the first household humanoid in real deployment, Hyundai reveals a mass-production factory robot, ShengShu raises $293M for physical AI, and Spirit AI closes $420M in 30 days. April 5–11, 2026.
From Pilots to Production: The Counter-Drone Industry Enters a New Phase
The global counter-drone (C-UAS) sector is scaling fast. New EU and US factories, an ․87M US Army contract, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup deployment mark a turning point for autonomous anti-drone technology. Read RobotToday’s March 2026 briefing.
