Arctic 100 Expedition – The Coolest Centennial Project

Research in the Arctic region is essential for the study of climate change and many other challenges facing the world today. Many universities and research institutions are interested in exploring the Arctic, but only a few of them have the resources to access the Arctic Ocean. Now Arctia, a Finnish icebreaker operator, wants to invite institutes, universities and other bodies from all over the world to join an icebreaker-assisted expedition to the Arctic.

The Arctic 100 Expedition is a part of Finland’s centennial year. The expedition is well timed because Finland will also take over the chairmanship of the Arctic Council next year. The expedition will take place in the summer of 2017. The goal of the expedition is to collect new scientific data and to deepen international Arctic research cooperation.

Arctia’s icebreaker will serve as a platform for various research activities and there is space for up to 70 researchers. The deck space can be used for research containers and equipment. Lifting appliances provide an opportunity for various equipment to be operated both on and off the vessel. Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) units can also be used. Research infrastructure like mobile labs can be set up in cabins and elsewhere inside the icebreaker. Icebreakers also have the capabilities needed to escort and assist ice-strengthened research vessels in Arctic waters.

The expedition will be planned according to the research interests and needs of parties who join the expedition. The final travel costs will depend on factors such as the number of participants and the objects of exploration. Sharing the expedition cost makes it possible for also smaller institutions and universities to join the expedition.

“Icebreaker-assisted exploration in the Arctic region requires resources and international cooperation. We want to enable this work by offering capable icebreakers and know-how for shared use by the researcher community,” says Eero Hokkanen, Communications Manager of Arctia.

Arctia Ltd. is a state owned company that continues the 125-year-old Finnish icebreaking tradition by deploying one of the strongest icebreaker fleets in the world. Arctia operates seven, and with Finland’s newest icebreaker Polaris, soon eight heavy icebreakers. The company’s line of business is the provision of icebreaking services, ice management, oil spill response and other polar maritime services.

More information: http://arctia.fi/en

Compliments of the Consulate General of Finland – a member of the EACCNY