Trial By Ice

Abstract

This article explores the experiments, use, and advantages of a next-generation ocean robot that would be used to explore oceans. Nereid Under Ice has been designed specifically for exploring the underside of Arctic sea ice, an area so far off-limits to scientists. As Nereid also must withstand extreme Arctic temperatures, its materials had to be tested even before it was assembled. In one flight, Nereid travelled over the fairly unexplored Arctic Gakkel Ridge system and its hydrothermal vents – fissures in sea floor that shoot up hot water – allowing scientists to survey life over these unique environs. Researchers hope it can also bring back fluid samples from the hydrothermal vents to offer insights into their ecosystems that sometimes host unique bacteria and life forms. The ability to explore these previously unreachable places opens new frontiers for polar science.