2024-12-02 18:00:00
The expedition to the South Pole began on December 2, 2024. That day, at 11 am (2 am in Paris), not far from Cape prud’homme, on the coast in front of the island Dumont base -d’Urville, a snow groomer and three tractors pulling seven sleds loaded with 25 tons of equipment advance on the icy track which, climbing up to 3,233 meters of altitude on the plateau, allows you to reach, at the end of a journey of 1,100 kilometres, the Franco-Italian station of Concordia.
On board, gathered for a forty-five day mission, the participants in the Awaca (Atmospheric Water Cycle over Antarctica) raid. In all, four logisticians from the French Paul-Emile-Victor Polar Institute (IPEV) and five researchers from various laboratories. They decided to install, at three points along this long supply route, platforms equipped with scientific instruments capable of operating autonomously for three consecutive years and providing new information on a curiously little-known meteorological phenomenon: snowfall in antarctica.
The continent plays an extremely crucial role on a global scale. By trapping 70% of the planet’s freshwater reserves as ice, it keeps the oceans at their current level and could even help limit their rise in the future. Actually, explains christophe Genthon, director of research at the Dynamic Meteorology Laboratory of the CNRS and co-responsible for Awaca, “IPCC models predict that global warming will be accompanied by an increase in precipitation intensity by the end of the century. Between 5.5% and 24.5% for this region, where it will mainly occur in the form of snowfall”.
Will the immense ice cap (the layer of ice) which almost entirely covers this vast continent, one and a half times the size of Europe, absorb this surplus? Will it help moderate rising oceans? It is impossible for scientists to answer this question because they are unable to estimate the percentage of this water that, being stored on the surface in the form of ice, will not afterward be released into the atmosphere or oceans below. . the effect of winds, sublimation reactions or outflow. and in general,without having gained better knowledge of the processes of snow accumulation on the polar ice cap. “Climate simulations have been observed to systematically overestimate the amount of precipitation that falls in Antarctica. This prejudice shows that corrections are necessary”, continues Christophe Genthon. They won’t be easy to make.
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How does international collaboration enhance research efforts in studying climate change impacts in polar regions?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Climate Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good evening, and welcome to another episode of our insightful discussions. Today, we have Dr. Elena Martinez, a leading climate scientist specializing in Antarctic ecology. Welcome,Dr. Martinez!
Dr.Elena Martinez (EM): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. Recently, there’s been quite a stir about the Awaca convoy and its exploration of Antarctica, specifically regarding Adélie penguins. Can you give us some background on this mission?
EM: Absolutely! The Awaca convoy is part of a larger research initiative aimed at studying climate change impacts on the delicate ecosystems of Antarctica. In November, researchers observed Adélie penguins in their natural habitat, which is crucial for understanding how climate changes affect their population and behavior.
TNE: Speaking of climate change, how are the Adélie penguins specifically impacted by these changes?
EM: Adélie penguins are highly sensitive to their environment. Changes in sea ice coverage—which is critical for their breeding and feeding—directly impact their survival. As temperatures rise, the timing of melting ice can disrupt their breeding cycles and lead to food scarcity due to shifts in the availability of their primary prey.
TNE: that sounds alarming. The article mentioned research being conducted on the penguins’ behavioral adaptations. What insights have researchers gathered from the Awaca expedition about these adaptations?
EM: Researchers have observed that Adélie penguins are adapting in some ways, such as altering their feeding patterns and nesting locations. Though, these adaptations may not be enough to counterbalance the rapid changes occurring in their environment. Continuous monitoring is essential to understand the long-term implications of these adaptations and whether they can maintain their populations in a warming climate.
TNE: It’s interesting yet concerning. What role does international collaboration play in these types of research missions, particularly in polar regions?
EM: International collaboration is vital! The Antarctic Treaty System encourages countries to share research and findings, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of global climate issues.The Awaca convoy, for example, involves scientists from multiple nations, bringing diverse expertise together to address these pressing challenges.
TNE: In your view, what are the biggest challenges facing the scientific community as they study climate change in such remote areas?
EM: One of the biggest challenges is the accessibility of these regions, especially with the unpredictable weather conditions. Additionally, funding for research is often limited, yet the importance of understanding climate change impacts in polar regions cannot be overstated. Educating the public and policymakers about these issues is also crucial for gaining support.
TNE: I couldn’t agree more. As the conversation around climate change continues to grow, what message do you want our audience to take away from this expedition?
EM: I want to emphasize the urgency of addressing climate change and protecting these fragile ecosystems. Every action, whether individual or collective, can make a difference. Awareness is the first step, and by supporting scientific research, we can contribute to a more lasting future for our planet.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for your valuable insights and sharing the crucial work being done in Antarctica. It’s clear that the future of Adélie penguins—and indeed, our planet—depends on our collective action.
EM: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these vital issues with you.
TNE: Until next time, stay informed and engaged with the pressing environmental challenges we face.Thank you for tuning in!
