Many of our readers are already familiar with Kickstarter, a site that introduced the idea of “crowdfunding” funding for projects such as inventions, plays, films, music, and other ventures. However, Kickstarter lacked a category that was unambiguously for science experiments and projects.

Enter a new crowdfunding option called Rockethub.com.  This site uses a model similar to Kickstarter; people with projects in need of funding put up a description of their projects with an amount that they’re looking for. For a set period of time donations go into an escrow fund. If the necessary amount comes in within the time allotted, the project gets funded. Otherwise, nothing, and no money changes hands.

What’s notable for science enthusiasts is Rockehub’s #Scifund Challenge, which brings scientists and funders together to help spread the thrill of doing or at least supporting science. Here are a few projects currently seeking funds:

• Every Blip Counts – Low Cost Seismic Sensors by Debi Kilb
  A citizen scientist project to develop a large, but low-cost, seismic network.
• Species in peril by Hadlylab
  Team up with Stanford researchers to help understand and conserve several species
• Methods of Artificially Aging Red Wine by Matthew Hutchins
  Investigating and debunking the various ways to artificially age wine.

This site has numerous projects that look interesting, maybe even compelling. It’s worth a look.