Scientists set for Arctic mission

A team of scientists and explorers are undertaking survival training before embarking on a gruelling polar challenge.

Helen Findlay, of Plymouth Marine Laboratory, is one of the scientists taking part. She said: “Part of my preparations will also be checking that my science kit works in these extreme conditions.

“I’ll need to adapt the way that I work to a system feasible for a small, heated but still very cold tent in the middle of the Arctic,” she added

They will head deep into the snowy wastes of the Arctic, were temperatures regularly plunge as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius, to gain vital information about climate change. The British and international team taking part in the 10-week Catlin Arctic Survey have been undergoing intensive training in Resolute Bay, in the Canadian Arctic Circle, to learn how to deal with frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, treacherous ice conditions, hazardous weather and visits from inquisitive polar bears.

The survey will examine how changes in the Arctic Ocean might impact thermohaline circulation - a global ocean circulation system that circulates warm and cold water around the globe.

These currents have a major impact on earth’s climate and weather patterns. They also distribute nutrients, heat and oxygen around other oceans, allowing life to flourish.

The team, made up of scientists, guides and the operations staff, will be staying at the “Ice Base” – a tented facility on solid sea ice.