Exploring the Antarctic waters with seals in electric hats

The production of Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW) is a key part of the global ocean circulation that distributes heat and regulates the Earth’s climate. The formation of AABW is dependent on enhanced sea-ice production, which influences water salinity and temperature, in specific coastal regions around Antarctica called ‘polynyas’. Investigating the delicate balance between AABW formation, sea-ice production and the impact of Antarctic ice sheet melting in polynyas has traditionally been an extremely difficult endeavour, particularly during winter when ship logistics are affected by both sea-ice growth and poor weather conditions. To overcome the physical challenges of studying these under-ice and coastal processes, scientists have recruited special oceanographer helpers, elephant seals.