This morning, icebreaker Oden left Longyearbyen and Adventfjorden. The Arctic Ocean 2016 research expedition has started.

Oden leaving Longyearbyen. Photo: Eva Grönlund

During the first intensive day, the expedition is visited by Helene Hellmark Knutsson, Minister of Higher Education and Research. Helene Hellmark Knutsson will take part in the final preparations and get a practical insight into Swedish Arctic research and international research cooperation in the Arctic.

Captain Erik welcomes Helene Hellmark Knutsson, Minister for Higher Education and Research, on board Oden. Photo: Eva Grönlund

Maria Soläng, Anders Lönn and Helene Hellmark Knutsson from the Ministry of Education and Research, and Björn Dahlbäck, Director-General of the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat. Photo: Åsa Lindgren