A solar‑ and wind‑powered uncrewed vessel launched a 22,000km Antarctic circumnavigation to gather ocean data for Australian climate research.

Mission overview

An uncrewed vessel launched from Hobart on a 22,000km circumnavigation of Antarctica, propelled by solar panels and wind sails.

The seven‑metre craft, painted in high‑visibility orange, is designed to operate autonomously for months in some of the planet’s most hostile waters.

Technical specifications

• Solar and wind propulsion system
• Seven‑metre length, kayak‑like hull
• Expected travel distance equals seven times the road distance between Sydney and Perth

Australian scientists said the vessel will collect temperature, salinity and carbon‑absorption data to improve climate models.

The data will be transmitted via satellite link, allowing researchers to monitor ocean uptake of emissions in near real time.

Project lead Dr Elena Martinez confirmed the mission will run through the Southern Ocean’s winter season, testing equipment durability under extreme conditions.

Scientists plan to retrieve the vessel in late 2026, when it will be guided back to a designated port for data download and refurbishment.