PolarQuest: Cosmic Ray Measurements and Arctic Exploration Beyond the Arctic Circle

Embark on a captivating journey through the Arctic with this 1-hour 32-minute lecture detailing the Polarquest expedition of 2018. Discover the scientific motivations behind this sailing expedition aboard the eco-friendly vessel Nanuq around the Svalbard Archipelago. Learn about groundbreaking cosmic ray measurements conducted at unprecedented northern latitudes, where no systematic sea-level measurements had previously been performed. Explore the expedition's multifaceted approach to investigating the threatened Arctic environment, including studies on macro/microplastic pollution and temperature changes. Gain insights into the air and water exploration of uncharted Arctic areas using drones and multibeam sonar technology. Delve into the expedition's complexity, scientific and technological challenges, and the spirit of adventure that drove the team. Examine the high-precision measurements of cosmic ray intensity versus latitude, conducted from 2018 to 2019 aboard Nanuq and on subsequent journeys covering nearly 50° of northern latitude. Learn about the permanent installation of cosmic ray detectors at the Ny-Ålesund International Research Station on Svalbard in 2019 and their current performance in advancing our understanding of cosmic radiation in the Arctic region.