The Catlin Arctic Survey has successfully extracted its team of explorers from the Arctic Ocean. A collaboration between scientists and explorers, the Catlin Arctic Survey undertakes field research in the Arctic and provides a unique platform to tell the story of its changing climate and how it relates to regions around the world.
The team of four explorers had been out on the frozen ocean for 47 days on a two-stage expedition undertaking scientific work across 308 miles (500 kilometres). The team, part of the Catlin Arctic Survey’s third scientific expedition, gathered crucial data along their route for scientists studying the fast-changing state of the ice.
Tim Cullingford, head of science for the Survey, said: “The work the explorers have been doing is about as tough as field science gets. After a whole day of trekking in the severe cold they have had to do several hours of science, drilling through the ice to create a sample hole and lowering a number of scientific instruments into the waters beneath.”
The results of their efforts will be analysed by Dr Simon Boxall from the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton (UK). The explorers’ work is part of a wider research programme completed by the Catlin Arctic Survey this year. The Survey also included a purpose-built field research station which hosted an international team of seven scientists. The expedition’s Catlin Ice Base was located on floating sea ice on the edge of the Arctic Ocean off Ellef Ringnes Island.
Initial scientific observations from the research expedition will be available soon. Full findings will be published after more detailed post expedition analysis is completed.