The 6th National Antarctic Science Expedition team, which was carried out by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK) within the scope of Antarctic studies and which included two academics from Atatürk University, arrived at the white continent after the long journey and quarantine period.

Within the scope of Antarctic studies carried out under the auspices of the Presidency, under the responsibility of the Ministry of Industry and Technology and under the coordination of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) MAM Polar Research Institute, the scientific expedition team, including Assist. Prof. Mehmet Karadayı of Atatürk University Faculty of Science Biology Department and Astrophysics Research and Application Center (ATASAM) Deputy Technical Manager Dr. Onur Şatır, reached King George Island. 0f the continent.

Precautions Taken Against Non-native Creatures

 The expedition team took measures to prevent the transport of non-native creatures to the continent in accordance with the Antarctic Environmental Protection Protocol. Before flying to the continent, the team carefully checked all their suitcases and clothes for possible residues, and before getting off the plane, they cleaned their boots in a disinfectant solution and then, landed at the continent. On the way to Antarctica, 2 foreign scientists joined the team to carry out their projects within the scope of cooperation with Portugal and Bulgaria.

The 6th National Antarctic Science Expedition team, which is expected to reach Horseshoe Island, where the Turkish Research Camp is located, after a one-week cruise from King George Island, passed by boat to the Chilean-flagged research ship Betanzos, where they will carry out their works for 30 days. After the crew settled on the ship, the first planning meeting regarding logistics and scientific activities was held under the coordination of the voyage leader and his assistants.

Researches on Different Scientific Fields will be Made

The team will conduct detailed research on marine life including bacteria, biodiversity, zooplankton and invertebrates, within the scope of 14 projects in different main fields such as physical sciences, earth sciences and life sciences in Antarctica. The research will cover geological and astronomic observations, glacier observations with LiDAR, GPR and orthophoto, monitoring of sea level/glacier change with the Global Positioning System (GNSS), determination of the coastline and testing of precise location.

On the continent, the data of 3 GNSS stations and a meteorological observation station belonging to Turkey which was established in the past years will be taken and maintenance works will be done. The team will continue their scientific studies by using the Turkish Temporary Science Camp established on Horseshoe Island in 2019. During the expedition, scientists will also have the opportunity to try national technology products.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATION DIRECTORATE – 11.02.2022