‘Robust little’ vessel begins treacherous 22,000km journey around Antarctica in the name of climate science
Summary
A small, unmanned vessel has started a 22,000 km trip around Antarctica to collect climate data. It uses wind and solar power to measure ocean and air carbon dioxide, helping scientists learn how oceans absorb carbon emissions.Key Facts
- The vessel is 7 meters long, bright orange, and looks like a large kayak.
- It will travel through tough conditions including big waves, cold temperatures, and strong winds.
- The trip is about seven times the distance between Sydney and Perth.
- The craft uses a heavy keel to stay upright, a rudder to steer, and a solar sail for power.
- It is remotely controlled and monitored via satellite by the maker, Saildrone.
- The vessel will measure many things such as wind speed, pressure, solar radiation, ocean temperature, salt levels, chlorophyll, and carbon dioxide in water and air.
- This journey will help scientists understand how the Southern Ocean absorbs human carbon emissions.
- More vessels will be launched in the future to collect data across different oceans, especially during winter.
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