Our goal is to conduct scientific research not only from specialized research vessels, but also from non-scientific vessels and marine infrastructures. The cooperation with HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) started in May 2024 and marine data is now being collected for scientific purposes as part of expedition voyages to remote regions.
In addition to the temperature and oxygen content of the water, the salt and CO2 content as well as microplastic concentrations are also being measured. In addition, tests are being carried out to determine how biodiversity in the waters can be investigated by measuring phytoplankton and genetic material traces in the water (eDNA) from commercial ships. In a further step, trace gas and aerosol concentrations as well as meteorological parameters of the atmosphere above the water surface of the world’s oceans are recorded.
Technologies and impact
The necessary technologies are currently being provided by SOOP in the form of prototypes. The Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise ships have a dual function. On the one hand, they are used for data delivery and, on the other hand, directly for data utilization, as travelers on board are made aware of the broad spectrum and relevance of ocean observation.
Various technologies are used:
- Contros HydroC FT, GEOMAR
- Seabird SBE45, GEOMAR
- Microplastic Sampler, Hereon
- HyperSpecBox, AWI
- eDNA Sampling, AWI
- Atmospheric Box PAMOS, AWI
