Story: Citizen Science Balloon
Episode: 4
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane

Trevor discovers the forefront of scientific exploration aboard Viking ships, where guests engage in groundbreaking research and environmental initiatives led by top experts in polar science.

• Viking ships are purpose-built as working research vessels, creating a leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting through partnerships with esteemed scientific and academic institutions.
• The science and sustainability division is led by Dr. Damon Stanwell-Smith, a marine biologist with 27 years of experience in polar research, including extensive work in Antarctica.
• Chaired by Professor Julian Dowdeswell, former Director of the Scott Polar Research Institute, the Viking scientific advisory committee includes experts from various fields such as atmospheric sciences, botany, glaciology, marine biology, and ornithology.
• The Viking Expedition Team, comprising 36 diverse experts—including scientists from the Scott Polar Research Institute—guides guests on shore excursions and engages them in collaborative science activities and fieldwork, a unique offering exclusive to Viking.
• Guests can participate in Viking's Citizen Science programme, which provides exceptional educational and enrichment opportunities, allowing them to contribute to ongoing scientific research during their voyage.
• Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are designated NOAA weather stations, launching biodegradable weather balloons filled with helium to gather crucial data for global weather prediction and climate modelling, with real-time data displayed at Expedition Central.

For more information, head to:
https://www.vikingcruises.com.au/expeditions/cruise-destinations/antarctica/antarctic-explorer/index.html