Arctic Tipping Points

The mountain range to the east of Adventfjorden, outside Longyearbyen. Photo: P. Wassmann

After cruises around Svalbard, the Barents Sea and the west coast of Greenland in 2009 ATP had a new cruise in 2010, which has come to an end in the port of Longyearbyen. It had been a cruise in good weather and excellent working conditions. The atmosphere on board was enjoyable and calm, and the science team was strongly dedicated to the various investigations that were carried out. As usual, the science crew was highly international. They came from 12 nations and worked in 7 different countries. After a social gathering on Tuesday night the entire equipment was packed, stored or brought for further work to UNIS in Longyearbyen.

All in all it has been a very successful cruise where most plans could be accomplished. Some goals were quickly reached. While we last year had to use the zooplankton nets extensively and despite that we did not find sufficient animals of the right stage and sort, this time we had obtained all animals already after the third day! A relative short, but essential cruise for the ATP project has come the end.

The view from Longyearbyen. Photo: P. Wassmann

Finally, I wish to express my gratitude for the supportive spirit and good atmosphere on board. Outreach is an ever increasing activity of research project and the presence of the Spanish TV team was an important element in our endeavours to reach broader segments of people.
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