Ukrainians help Americans study the Antarctic. And not only to them
23 January 2025 08:49
For the first time in history, the Ukrainian research vessel Noosphere is conducting research in the Southern Ocean at the request of the US National Science Foundation. This was reported by the National Antarctic Research Center, according to
It is noted that the fourth Antarctic season of Noosphere, which is the most international, is underway. And for several days now, the Ukrainian icebreaker has been operating in the waters around the American Palmer Antarctic Station. From the Noosphere, U.S. researchers are carrying out their marine research program.
In honor of this cooperation, the flags of both countries were raised on the ship and at the station.
The National Antarctic Science Center emphasizes that this is the first such mission not only for Noosphere, but also for the Ukrainian Navy in general.
At the end of this week, Noosphere is to complete its mission on the Palmer and, with American colleagues on board, head to the Ukrainian Antarctic station Akademik Vernadsky. Negotiations on expanding cooperation are planned there.
“Noosphere is actively cooperating with foreign partners this season
At the end of December last year, the flagship of the Ukrainian research fleet visited the Polish Antarctic station “Arttowski”, which is located on King George Island. Thus, for the fourth time in a row, the Ukrainian icebreaker provided rotation of Polish polar explorers and cargo delivery to the Polish Antarctic station.
As part of its cooperation with Spain, Noosphere will provide research and cargo delivery for the Gabriel de Castilla station located on the island of Despensations. On the same voyage, Ukrainian scientists will perform a number of joint activities with the Czech Antarctic Expedition.
“Noosphere will also join two more projects within the Horizon Europe program:
OCEAN:ICE – oceanographic research on changing currents in the Bransfield Strait;
EXPLORA – selection of samples of marine bacteria for their further cultivation and search for useful properties.
All international research and projects are funded by foreign partners.
