Unprecedented milestone contributes to the development of scientific research
By First Lieutenant (T) Ohana Gonçalves – Rio de Janeiro, RJ
The Polar Ship (NPo) “Almirante Maximiano” crossed the Antarctic Circle for the first time on Friday (8), located at approximately latitude 66°33′48.9”South, in order to contribute to the development of scientific projects that are part of the 42nd Antarctic Operation (OPERANTAR).
The unprecedented milestone – since most expeditions do not reach latitude 66°33′ South due to adverse conditions – reinforces the Brazilian Navy’s (MB) commitment to guaranteeing the country’s status as a Consultative Member of the Antarctic Treaty – ensuring Brazil’s full participation in decision-making processes regarding the future of the White Continent – and in promoting diversified, high-quality research on relevant Antarctic topics.
The Antarctic Circle is an imaginary line that delimits the area around the South Pole, where the sun does not set on the December solstice and does not rise on the June solstice. It is one of the five main lines of latitude that mark the Earth’s polar circles, along with the Arctic Circle, the Tropic of Cancer, the Tropic of Capricorn and the Equator.
“Crossing the Antarctic Circle was a boost for the entire crew and researchers after five months of commission. In addition to the challenge of sailing in such an inhospitable and remote environment, the unprecedented nature of Brazilian scientific research was inspiring,” said the Commander of the NPo “Almirante Maximiano”, Captain Dieferson Ramos Pinheiro.
Antarctic Operations
OPERANTAR, which is part of the Brazilian Antarctic Program, is divided into logistical and research activities. The organization of materials, equipment and supplies – necessary for the operation of the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station (EACF) and for the development of scientific projects – directly involves MB and Brazilian Air Force resources.
The research part is carried out during OPERANTAR’s summer period, from October to March. Studies are carried out on board MB ships, in the EACF, in the Cryosphere 1 module, in isolated camps and in foreign stations, through cooperation agreements between countries.
Research projects approved and published by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) take part in OPERANTAR. Each study group presents its work proposal and support needs for the operation, using scientific, logistical and environmental forms, which will be evaluated. Based on the information acquired, the projects are assigned to the research phases, making use of the means available to access the authorized sites where samples are collected and scientific studies and experiments are carried out.
The NPo “Almirante Maximiano” is still on the white continent and is scheduled to return to Brazil in April this year.
Source: Agência Marinha de Notícias