International voyage publishes winter Antarctic sea-ice data set

Researchers from twelve countries released a consolidated data set from a winter Antarctic expedition measuring sea-ice thickness near the peninsula. Preliminary findings suggest faster seasonal melt patterns than models assumed five years ago.

Fishing regulators said the results may tighten krill harvest limits pending peer review. Climate modellers welcomed open access to submersible readings taken under storm conditions.

Polar shipping insurers are revisiting route risk tables for late-summer transits. WOP360 will summarise peer-reviewed conclusions expected in autumn journals.