Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 03/24/2008 - 09:16
Forums
Bering Ecosystem Change

On the Healy during IPY did scientists introduce their ideas, or was it more of a celebration of the polar years? And, if it was the first one, (introducing their ideas), did you have a particular favorite one? Do you know when the next polar year is? 

Regan Fitzgerald, period: 1 

Tue, 03/25/2008 - 10:31

Craig Kasemodel

Hi Regan
There have been 3 IPY over the past 125 years prior to the latest IPY 2007-2009. The first IPY was in 1882-1883 and established the tradition of international cooperation in polar exploration and scientific research. The first IPY concentrated on meteorology. The 2nd IPY was in 1932-1933 and concentrated research efforts on the newly discovered 'Jet Stream'. The 3rd IPY was in 1957-1958. It was actually the International Geophysical Year (IGY) celebrating the 75th and 25th anniversaries of the previous IPY's. The 3rd IPY was conceived out of the desire to utilize technology that was developed during WWII. Technology, such as radar and rockets, was thought to hold great potential for science.
This trip on the Healy during the 4th IPY is a continuation of spirit and legacies of prior IPY's. We have an international contingent of researchers who are at the forefront of their field. They are utilizing the latest in technology and techniques in their research.