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We are on schedule for an early morning arrival in Hobart tomorrow, as planned. The voyage has been an extraordinary success. We’ve achieved more than I dared to hope for when we left a bit over a month ago. Highlights include completing the SR3 transect, collecting observations that will be used to track climate change in the oceans; observing parts of the ocean where no ship has been before; discovering a vast phytoplankton bloom fuelled by the melt of decades-old sea ice; making new maps of biodiversity on the sea floor based on photographs at more than 70 sites; measurements of ocean acidification and its effects on organisms; and the collection of samples that will allow advanced genetic techniques to explore biogeography and function. An immense volume of data has been collected, including CTD stations at 149 locations where a large variety of physical and chemical properties were measured. Some instruments were deployed, like floats and moorings, that will continue to measure the ocean for years to come. The outcome of the voyage will be a better understanding of the role of the Southern Ocean in the climate system and the sensitivity of the region to future change. This information, in turn, will allow us to anticipate and respond more effectively to climate change. As this is the final sitrep for the voyage, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone on board for all their hard work during the last 33 days. It has been a huge effort, and we could not have done it without the contribution of each of you.
REGARDS: Steve, Fred and Penny
Map
A map showing Australia and Antarctica. The map shows the journey of one voyage that has occured in the season, with each route highlighted in a distinct colour.