Collaborative Research: Trans-Arctic 2005 Expedition for Development of a Pan-Arctic Stratigraphy and Paleoclimate Record

Old Dominion University Research Foundation, Norfolk VA

Investigators

Abstract

It is widely acknowledged that the Arctic Ocean plays an important role in regulating global climate. However, there is a striking paucity of paleo-climate records for this sensitive area. Funds are provided to core and investigate selected seafloor targets in the Arctic Ocean as part of a trans-Arctic crossing by the Swedish icebreaker, Oden and the USCGC Healy in 2005. This research will establish a pan-Arctic stratigraphic and paleoclimate record back to, at least, the last major interglacial, with special emphasis on the Chukchi region north of Alaska. Acoustical surveys will permit locating sites with high sedimentation rates. The initial post-cruise work will focus on core characterization. Data will be shared with European colleagues funded through other agencies.