20 April–7 June the expedition Arctic Ocean 2002 was conducted using the Swedish icebreaker Oden as a research platform. The expedition was unique in that it was carried out early in the season. For the first time, researchers were able to study processes in these regions in winter conditions.
The earth’s climate is determined by the circulation of the atmosphere and the oceans. Our northern oceans are intimately involved in these circulation processes. Disturbances and changes in the large-scale circulation systems that regulate the climate and affect the environment can lead to palpable effects on societies and people, plants and animals. Consequently, thorough understanding of the systems’ function, processes, and feedback mechanisms is vital.
Research projects
Six research and one artistic projects were part of Arctic Ocean 2002:
- The East Greenland Current and world ocean circulation
- Reduced ozone layer a threat to marine life
- Microorganisms and the carbon cycle
- Organic compounds from the ocean are affecting the ozone layer and climate
- Radioactive substances as tools
- Environmental toxins common in the Arctic
- The Art of Dance in the Arctic – Exploring Movement in a Frozen Landscape