A helicopter, an echo sounder to estimate marine biomass, and an underwater robot are part of the state-of-the-art equipment that Peru will bring to Antarctica —for the first time— as part of its 26th scientific expedition setting off today.
This new expedition will be undertaken aboard the oceanographic research vessel
BAP Carrasco, a sort of polar cruiser built in Spain which succeeds
BIC Humboldt.
At a press conference recently held on board the vessel, Navy, Army, and Foreign Affairs Ministry's representatives explained the goals of the mission, the itinerary, and the cutting-edge equipment brought aboard.
"
BAP Carrasco is one of the most modern research ships in the globe and the latest in the region," said Captain Carlos Guerrero Malpartida, the ship director.
The ANTAR XXVI expedition will last 99 days from 7 December 2018 to 15 March 2019.
24 Scientific Programs
This time, 13 scientific programs will be carried out at Machu Picchu base and other 11 at sea. They cover areas such as glaciology, geology, atmospheric research, the study of
El Niño Phenomenon, and climate change.
Experts noted that some of these projects have to do with biotechnology and explore the possibility of producing antibiotics using elements found at Antarctica.
According to Peruvian Navy Hydrography and Navigation Director Rear Admiral Jorge Paz, Antarctica is a kind of natural laboratory and Peru's presence there seeks to contribute to international science as a consultative party to the
1989 Antarctic Treaty.
It must be noted BAP Carrasco is equipped with eight state-of-the-art science laboratories.
(END) RRC/RRC/RMB/MVB
Published: 12/7/2018