The Ocean Census is joining the Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI) on its ‘Climate Connections at the Ice-Sea Interface’ expedition. This Ocean Census participant expedition will see scientists from the Ocean Census Science Network working alongside the Schmidt Ocean Institute to explore the deep-water regions surrounding the Antarctic Peninsula. Three Ocean Census scientists will join Schmidt Ocean’s R/V Falkor (too) from January 10 – February 13, 2025.
Utilizing high-resolution mapping technology and the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian, the team will investigate the effects of glacial activity on the seafloor, biodiversity in these extreme environments, and the dynamics of past ice sheets to understand their role in global climate and sea-level changes.
This mission will also explore methane seep ecosystems, where chemosynthetic microbes transform methane into energy, aiding in carbon storage. The rapid retreat of ice sheets poses risks of methane release, with significant implications for climate change. Using gliders and baited landers, the team will examine biodiversity, ecosystem connectivity, and nutrient cycling, seeking to discover new species and understand the unique adaptations of Antarctic marine life.
We will collaborate with our participant scientists and Schmidt Ocean Institute teams to share stories, announcements, and discoveries.
Be sure to follow @oceancensus and @schmidtocean on social media to keep up to date with this fascinating expedition: #AntarcticClimateConnections
ALL Image Credits: Schmidt Ocean Institute
