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Solo Arctic Circumnavigation for Climate Research
18 Jul
Summary
- Matt Rutherford is attempting a solo, nonstop Arctic Ocean circumnavigation.
- The voyage aims to raise awareness and funds for polar research.
- Rutherford notes reduced Arctic ice makes such a voyage possible now.
Matt Rutherford, an Ohio native, is currently engaged in an ambitious solo voyage around the Arctic Ocean. Departing from Aasiaat, Greenland, on June 25, he aims to achieve the first-ever solo, nonstop, unassisted circumnavigation of the Arctic. This 10,000-mile journey is anticipated to conclude in early October, traversing significant routes like the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage.
Rutherford, founder of the nonprofit Ocean Research Project, is undertaking this expedition to support Arctic climate research and marine science. He highlights that warmer global temperatures have decreased Arctic ice, enabling this undertaking. Funding for polar research has diminished in recent years, making his fundraising efforts critical. His colleague, Nicole Trenholm, focuses on glacial fjord systems and their changes due to climate impacts.
The expedition is divided into three phases. The first involves sailing north towards the Russian border. The second, considered the most dangerous, will take Rutherford through the Northern Sea Route, facing potential ice and challenging conditions for about a month with no communication. The third phase will see him navigate the Northwest Passage and Baffin Bay before returning to Greenland. Despite the inherent risks, Rutherford expresses enthusiasm for the challenge.
