Wilson Center | Polar Institute

New Blog Post | “Ever Forward: The Unique Relationship Between Arctic and Space” In his recent blog post, David Marsh discusses the critical connection between the Arctic and space exploration by introducing the Fram2 mission, inspired by the historic ship Fram, which redefined polar exploration in the 19th century. Fram2 will embark on a groundbreaking journey to orbit the Earth’s poles, conducting scientific research that reflects a modern spirit of space exploration and technology. https://lnkd.in/gZisHixf

New Blog Post | Norway’s Supposed Arctic Seafloor Treasures: What Does the Data Show? In our newest blog post, Henry Ruehl examines Norway’s decision to permit seabed mineral exploration across a large section of its Exclusive Economic Zone, a move met with sharp environmental and international criticism. The Norwegian government points to essential resources like cobalt and rare earths for green tech, but critics question the economic viability, noting limited evidence of economically viable deposits and challenging extraction logistics in harsh #Arctic conditions. Click the link below to read the full post. https://lnkd.in/gHGfuJ4X

Announcing the US Polar Leadership Project 🇺🇸 As we near the next IPY and US Chairship of the #Arctic, US leadership in the poles will be more important—and more closely scrutinized—than ever before. But our ability to demonstrate leadership, and to exert the influence of our presence in the Arctic and Antarctica—is on thin ice. The years leading up to these events is an excellent time to launch new initiatives, platforms, and capabilities for maximum visibility and effect. It’s time to start now. The US Polar Leadership Project is a multiyear, multi-agency initiative spotlighting the necessity and benefits of American engagement in the poles. Visit the US Polar Leadership Project webpage (https://lnkd.in/gXNSRJaf) to follow along as we highlight opportunities for US leadership in the polar regions. U.S. Coast Guard National Science Foundation (NSF) Us Arctic Research Commission The Wilson Center

New Publication | Pan-Arctic Methane: Current Monitoring Capabilities, Approaches for Improvement, and Implications for Global Mitigation Targets Thawing Arctic permafrost is releasing methane at an alarming rate, accelerating global warming and jeopardizing critical climate targets. In this report, experts from Sandia National Laboratories, Harvard Kennedy School, Woodwell Climate Research Center, The Wilson Center, and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory emphasize the urgent need for better monitoring and international collaboration to mitigate this escalating threat. Read the full report by visiting the page below: https://lnkd.in/g_sMRDWH

Congratulations to Dr. Mike Sfraga, Wilson Center Polar Institute Chair & Distinguished fellow, on his confirmation as the first US Ambassador-at-Large for #Arctic Affairs. Dr. Sfraga has played a pivotal role in shaping conversations on the Arctic’s geopolitical, environmental, and economic future. His appointment today underscores the critical importance of the Arctic to the United States and the world. https://lnkd.in/gYwvmEUV

Upcoming Event | UK and US Antarctic Collaboration: The Cutting Edge of Polar Science and Future Directions 🗓️ October 2, 2024, 10-11am EDT (Online only) The United Kingdom and the United States have collaborated closely on Antarctic science for many decades and have led research in recent years that is crucial to understanding glacier dynamics and global sea-level rise. This program will feature prominent scientists and policy leaders who will discuss some of the key elements of that cooperation, notably by the British Antarctic Survey and National Science Foundation (NSF), as well as future ambitions, including related to plans for the forthcoming International Polar Year. Join us virtually on October 2, 2024, as we bring together prominent figures from the scientific community to underscore the urgency of these efforts and their significance for policymakers in Washington, DC, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making in the face of an evolving Antarctic region. This event is co-sponsored by Wilson Center | Environmental Change and Security Program and Wilson Center | Global Europe Program. https://lnkd.in/gMRwzZhP

📷 “In Search of Polar Bears in the Arctic Summer: Part II” Take a look at these beautiful images captured by Robin Wright on her recent Arctic adventure. To see more, visit the webpage linked below. Don’t forget to also read “In Search of Polar Bears in the Arctic Summer: Part I” for the context behind these wonderful photos. 🐻❄️Part I: https://lnkd.in/gaKzyZkn 🐻❄️Part II: https://lnkd.in/g9V7QKNd

New Blog Post | “In Search of Polar Bears in the Arctic Summer: Part I” In our latest blog post, Robin Wright, Wilson Center fellow, describes a captivating #Arctic experience where she observed a mother polar bear and her cubs up close. Through her encounter, she highlights the severe impact of climate change on polar bears, noting how the loss of sea ice is critically threatening their habitat and survival. The piece underscores the urgent need for action to address these environmental challenges. Be sure to also check out “In Search of Polar Bears in the Arctic Summer: Part II” for stunning photos from her Arctic adventure. https://lnkd.in/gaKzyZkn

New Video | Farewell Reflections: Norwegian and Finnish Ambassadors on Change, Challenges, and Future Ties Ambassador Anniken Krutnes of the Royal Norwegian Embassy and Ambassador Mikko Hautala of the Embassy of Finland have spent the past four years in Washington, DC. As their time in the United States comes to a close, they join Polar Institute director Rebecca Pincus to reflect on the evolving relationship between the US, Norway, and Finland, the increasing focus on the Arctic, and share their perspectives on what lies ahead for these important diplomatic ties. https://lnkd.in/gAaG_8qQ

Can #Russia cut your Instagram feed? I'm thrilled to share my new report with The Wilson Center Wilson Center | Polar Institute on Arctic Seabed Warfare Against Data Cables. The paper looks at Russian and Chinese nefarious subsea activities against critical underwater infrastructure (CUI), and especially the threat to fiber-optic data cables. It discusses the vulnerability of subsea infrastructure in the Arctic region and the urgent need for a balanced response of governance, deterrence, and technology-enabled capabilities to protect CUI. https://lnkd.in/eD_4cHqn