Russian scientists to study Arctic climate on new drifting platform

Researchers will be able to observe the climate, biology, ocean and other areas of scientific interest of the polar zone in a safe environment.

Photo: Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute

The North Pole 41 expedition was launched in Murmansk. It included scientists and polar researchers from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AARI). They set off on a new ice self-propelled platform (LSP), the North Pole, the press service of the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said.

The main goal of the scientific voyage will be a comprehensive study of the Arctic in the atmosphere-ice-ocean system.

According to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, the practical results of the research are extremely important for the successful implementation of the Arctic zone development strategy. The Prime Minister called the North Pole expedition an unprecedented comprehensive experiment.

“The North Pole serves as a vehicle, a home, a research laboratory and even a research tool for polar explorers — its hull is fitted with sensors to monitor ice conditions.

The floating platform will reach the drift starting point in early October. AARI specialists are now monitoring five ice floes where they can set up a research camp. The final choice of location will be made on site.

The North Pole LSP will freeze into the ice in about 7-10 days, after which scientists will deploy a base around the platform.

As explained by Alexander Makarov, director of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, the use of a self-propelled ice platform will make it possible to study the Arctic territories in a comprehensive and continuous manner.

All the data obtained with many variables will be transmitted online to the “mainland”. The information thus obtained will be used to refine ice forecasts for safe and efficient navigation along the Northern Sea Route.

“This is extremely important because the final cost of shipping in the Arctic seas ultimately depends on the quality of the ships’ piloting,” said Alexander Makarov.

The North Pole LSP project was developed in cooperation between Vympel Design Bureau, Roshydromet and the AARI. The platform was built at Admiralty Shipyards in St. Petersburg.

The vessel was launched in December 2020. Two years later, the LSP went out for sea trials. In August 2022, the platform was handed over for operation.

"The North Pole became the third vessel in the scientific expedition fleet of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute.

Cover photo: Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute