REPORTAGE – Off Sicily, Ifremer’s FocusX3 mission is installing an underwater seismic monitoring network unique in the world. “Le Figaro” embarked with the scientists.
Special Envoy to Sicily
Since 5 o’clock in the morning, Charles has been struggling to make this data logger. Nothing to do. He may have tried all possible and imaginable manipulations, the situation seems very complicated. Without this tool, it is impossible to operate the seismometers, which must nevertheless dive to a depth of 2000 meters to feel the geological activity of the area. The sun is now high in the sky over the Strait of Messina, between Sicily and the tip of Italy’s boot. Behind him, the snow-covered Etna shines with a thousand lights and its plume of smoke decorates an azure blue sky. Eventually, Atalanta, vessel of the French scientific fleet, resumes its course. The problem is postponed.
It’s just a small hiccup and the mission must continue. Charles Poitou is a CNRS engineer at the Geo-Ocean unit in Brest. It has now been three days since he embarked on this Ifremer vessel as part of the FocusX3 mission led by Marc-André Gutscher…
This article is for subscribers only. You have 91% left to discover.
Flash Sale -70%
Offer available until February 28. Without engagement.
Already subscribed? Login