Formation of the Arctic Basin

The Arctic Ocean is of particular geological interest. It hosts a wealth of different geological provinces ranging from deep ocean basins over prominent ridges to vast shallow shelf areas believed to be rich in natural resources. Due to the perennial sea ice-cover, information on the geological history of the Arctic Ocean is still sparse. As the sea-ice recedes, the Arctic Ocean will see an explosion of research activities. With RV Polarstern, our powerful ice breaker and a variety of specially adapted equipment and techniques, AWIs geophysics group has played a leading role in Arctic Ocean geophysical research for many years and in various projects.