In the coming weeks, we will be sharing a series of recap posts from our recent expedition carried out as part of the SEA ICE research project. This campaign set out to deepen our understanding of the rapidly changing sea-ice conditions in the central Arctic and how these shifts influence vessel performance and structural response.
Since 2021, ongoing observations aboard Le Commandant Charcot have contributed valuable long-term data on sea-ice thickness distribution and its regional variability across the Arctic Ocean. The measurements collected during this year’s journey continue to support the validation of satellite observations and the improvement of climate models.
By investigating the mechanical properties of sea ice—including strength, temperature, salinity, and density—the expedition added another important dataset to previous research efforts. These parameters are essential for determining ice resistance and estimating structural loads on vessels. Combined with ship trials conducted in ice-covered waters, the research offers an increasingly detailed picture of navigability in the evolving Arctic.
As northern sea routes gain significance for both ice-going and conventional vessels, understanding vessel performance and structural responses in these environments remains crucial for ensuring safe and sustainable operations during the Arctic summer.
Stay tuned as we revisit key moments, findings, and experiences from this remarkable journey.
