A solar- and wind-powered uncrewed vessel has set off on a months-long voyage around Antarctica, covering a distance seven times greater than the stretch between Sydney and Perth. The small, kayak-like craft will navigate treacherous southern waters while gathering critical ocean data to help scientists assess how seas absorb atmospheric emissions. Equipped with high-visibility orange hulls and autonomous systems, the seven-meter vessel relies on renewable energy to sustain its long expedition. Researchers hope the mission will deepen understanding of remote marine environments and their role in climate regulation.
Powered by sun and wind, the uncrewed vehicle will collect data to help Australian scientists better understand how oceans absorb emissionsA small uncrewed vessel has embarked on a lap around Antarctica and may not return for months.The seven-metre craft, which looks like a large kayak in hi-vis orange, is expected to travel about 22,000km through inhospitable waters, propelled by powerful westerly winds and energy from the sun. The journey is seven times the distance between Sydney and Perth. Continue reading...
