Young scientists measure Atlantic's vital signs

Four UCT students arrived in port after five weeks aboard international polar research vessel the RV Polarstern having gained invaluable experience observing and measuring the Atlantic Ocean’s vital signs.

Angelee Annasawmy, Mohammed Kajee, Ngwako Mohale and Amy Wright were part of the 32-strong international group of students that sailed from Germany. They represented 19 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and America.

The aim of the voyage was to increase ocean-going training and build capacity for marine research.

The Atlantic Ocean, with its definite biogeographical gradients in temperature and salinity as well as its zones of upwelling is an integral part of our planet’s acclimatisation system. With the backdrop of climate change and an increasing El Niño signature it is imperative scientists understand how the ocean functions.

UCT student Amy Wright said: “This was an awesome experience where I could put my university knowledge to good practical use. I will never forget what I learnt on this cruise and we are all grateful to the crew and teachers for their time and patience”.

(The sponsors were the Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, the Nippon Foundation, the Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans and the Strategic Marine Alliance for Research and Training.)

Story supplied. Image of the polar research vessel RV Polarstern courtesy of Pauhla McGrane.