Expressions of Intent for International Polar Year 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

The Catlin Arctic Survey  (CAS)

Outline
An expedition team of three Arctic explorers will trek and swim across approximately 1200km+ of Arctic sea ice to the North Pole to capture the first comprehensive surface-based dataset measuring, among other things, the depth of the ice and snow, thus providing this mapping information to sea ice scientists and other cryospheric research teams to more accurately predict the lifespan of the Arctic sea-ice. Crucially, the team’s ground-penetrating radar will distinguish between the base ice layer and any over-lying snow layer, as it is the thickness of the ice which is the key parameter for lifespan estimates by computer modellers. Over 50 different measurements and samples will be taken, some continuously, others hourly, daily or weekly. From the seawater column, (measuring salinity, temperature, conductivity and direction amongst others) to the ice/snow layers, rubble fields, open water leads, and up into the atmosphere using weather balloons. Further observations will be undertaken from the aerial survey team to create a 3D benchmark data set on the state of the ice, giving a better understanding of the interaction between the processes affecting the ice cap’s condition. In association with the US Naval Postgraduate School, this data will be used to improve the accuracy and reliability of computer models forecasting the timing of the sea ice’s disappearance, and associated impacts for our changing global climate. WWF International, Catlin Arctic Survey’s partner, is looking to present the findings at the United Nations 15th Conference of Parties scheduled to take place in Copenhagen, in December 2009. As a result, the findings will reach an international audience with the power to make significant amendments and advances to political and corporate environmental policy on a global scale. A truly international venture, the Catlin Arctic Survey looks to use its resources to engage the widest possible audience worldwide in the nature of the Arctic Ocean region and the issues arising from its melting ice cover. The Catlin Arctic Survey has generated an unprecedented level of interest from international media groups, resulting in on-going discussions with international broadcasters and news organisations including the BBC, BSkyB, ITN, CNN, Al Jazeera and Novosti. Our objective is to create a high profile, cross-platform presence that will position the Survey as an international media event of compelling interest to a truly global audience.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
Themes 1&2 – Using pioneering technology, we will collect over 50 different measurements along our chosen transect. The primary data, measuring the depth of the snow and sea ice, will be of an accuracy that has not been achieved to date. This data can then be used to validate or question the accuracy of past and future measurements. Theme 3 – The data will provide information on the Arctic sea, ice and climate. Our scientific partners will then use these datasets to create an overview of the interlinked elements. Theme 4 – CAS will use pioneering technology to measure the sea ice, but also to feed the information back to London HQ on a realtime basis using satellite technology.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?
WWF International – Gland, Switzerland, UNEP - Regional Office North America, University of Cambridge (DAMPT), Jet Propulsion Laboratory - NASA, Dept of Oceanography US Navy, Hadley Centre at UK Met Office, ESA - Belgium,

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Without knowledge of the extent of next year’s sea ice, we envisage to start at or near 80° N, 140° W with the transect heading on a straight line to the North Pole (this could change depending on sea ice cover).

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: 02/09 – 06/09            
Antarctic: n/a

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
Fixed wing transport for resupply drops; possible need for planes with air drop capabilities; helicopter support; satellites; radars; snow terrain vehicles; existing field stations (Eureka/Resolute); new field stations on the ice; fuel depots; ice drilling capability

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
No

How is it envisaged that the required logistic support will be secured?
Consortium
National agency
Commercial operator
Own support

– CAS envisages working with Kenn Borek Air in tandem with Summit Air and Universal Helicopters where appropriate. Lines of communication are open with PCSP.

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
Endorsements from HRH Prince of Wales; WWF International; Executive Director of UNEP; University of Cambridge (DAMPT); NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, US Navy Dept Oceanography, ESA

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND STRUCTURE

Is the project a short-term expansion (over the IPY 2007-2008 timeframe) of an existing plan, programme or initiative or is it a new autonomous proposal?
Yes

This is an autonomous proposal. Only the 1 expedition planned at this stage

How will the project be organised and managed?
A core group of 12 people will form the Catlin Arctic Survey team. An operations team based in London to arrange all logistics both prior to departure and during the expedition with 24 hour support to the ice team. Some 35 additional consultants and engineers (such as PR, communications, science advisors) will be offering their professional services throughout the project. CAS will have a forward operating base at Resolute where resupplies onto the ice will be organised. We intend to have 2 small manned ice bases to use as resupply / refuelling points.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
International broadcasters including BBC, BSkyB, ITN, CNN, Al Jazeera, and Novosti are looking to file reports. We also anticipate an additional 90 TV channels worldwide to cover the story; our website is projected to attract 3-5 million unique website users. We work in conjunction with WWF International, UNEP (RONA) and ESA to help in engagement. CAS is also looking to build an educational website focussing on the Arctic.

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document?
Data sets collected will be sent back to the UK on a continuous, hourly, daily or weekly basis (depending on the data type). We are currently in discussions with ESA and Infoterra Ltd about managing all received data. The data will be available in a ‘user-friendly’ format on the website as well as suitable formats for scientists and global climate change policy makers.

How is it proposed to fund the project?
The £2.5m budget has been reached through corporate sponsorship, philanthropists, foundations and in-kind services

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
None

PROPOSER DETAILS

Mr Pen Hadow
Catlin Arctic Survey
Wydemeet, Hexworthy
Yelverton, Devon
PL20 6SF
UK

Tel: +44 (0)779 3059237
Mobile: no
Fax: no
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation