India’s maiden winter scientific Arctic expedition
1. What is the purpose of India's winter scientific Arctic expedition?
The purpose of India's first winter scientific Arctic expedition is to conduct unique scientific observations during the polar nights in the Arctic. This period features no sunlight for nearly 24 hours and sub-zero temperatures. Research conducted during this time aims to enhance understanding of various phenomena such as climate change, space weather, and ocean circulation dynamics, which are pivotal for predicting weather patterns, including those affecting the monsoons in tropical regions.
2. Where do the winter expeditions take place?
The winter expeditions take place at India’s research base in the Arctic, Himadri, located in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard in the Norwegian Arctic. The base has primarily been used for summer research since its inception in 2008, but will now also support scientific activities during the harsher winter months.
3. What are some key research areas of the winter expedition?
Key research areas include studying the effects of climate change on the Arctic environment, dynamics of sea ice and ocean currents, ecosystem adaptations in extreme conditions, and how these factors relate to global climate patterns. Additional studies focus on atmospheric sciences, environmental chemistry, marine biology, cryospheric science, and space weather.
4. How does India select research proposals for the Arctic expedition?
Research proposals for the Arctic expedition are selected through an open call inviting researchers across India to submit their projects. These proposals undergo a thorough peer review and are evaluated by an expert selection committee. For the winter 2023 expedition, 41 proposals were submitted, out of which 15 were shortlisted.
5. What makes this winter expedition significant for India?
Launching a winter expedition to the Arctic places India among a select group of nations that conduct scientific research in the Arctic during the winter. This initiative not only extends India's capabilities in Earth science research but also strengthens its position in international scientific collaborations focused on critical environmental and climatic issues.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the objectives, processes, and significance of India's pioneering winter scientific Arctic expedition to the Arctic.
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