The Big Story

Racehorses and Climate Change

  • OBST machine
    Photograph: Ryan Young
    01
    Mick Peterson created the Orono Biomechanical Hoof Tester, a hulking piece of machinery meant to simulate the power of a thoroughbred’s front leg.
  • Bottom of OBST hoof that goes into the ground
    Photograph: Ryan Young
    02
    When the horseshoe-shaped weight hits the track, eight embedded sensors collect data on the impact, cushion depth, and moisture levels. 
  • OBST horse shoe mold in ground after dropping to simulate a hoof
    Photograph: Ryan Young
    03
    The wiring diagram, source code, and operating manual for the hoof tester are all publicly available online, though it costs more than $75,000 to make.
  • hoof print in the dirt track
    Photograph: Ryan Young
    04
    The team sticks a moisture probe into the ground beside each faux hoofmark to get another, clearer moisture readout.
  • back of the van with OBST machinery
    Photograph: Ryan Young
    05
    The OBST hitches up to a van or truck.
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