Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/frozen-in-the-ice
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend an entire year intentionally frozen in the Arctic sea ice? While it sounds like a plot from a thrilling adventure movie, it was the reality for hundreds of scientists involved in the MOSAiC expedition. From September 2019 to October 2020, the Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate (MOSAiC) expedition embarked on a groundbreaking mission, freezing a ship in the Arctic ice to conduct vital research. Now, you can explore this incredible journey and the science behind it through Coursera’s “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic” course.
This course offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the scientists and experts who were on the front lines of this ambitious project. It’s a chance to gain unparalleled insights into the challenges and discoveries made during this historic expedition.
The syllabus is meticulously designed to take you from the basics to the cutting edge of Arctic research. It begins with an engaging introduction to the Arctic’s geography and geopolitics, even drawing parallels with the inspiring Fram expedition from 150 years ago. You’ll then delve into the complexities of the Arctic atmosphere, understanding Earth’s energy budget and the crucial role of Arctic clouds and feedback systems. The course seamlessly transitions to the Arctic Ocean, exploring its circulation, stratification, and the intricate coupling between the atmosphere, ocean, and sea ice. A dedicated module focuses on sea ice itself, detailing its formation, behavior, and the alarming changes it’s undergoing due to climate change.
Beyond the physical sciences, the course illuminates the Arctic’s delicate ecosystems, highlighting the importance of microfauna and their connection to nutrient cycles and atmospheric phenomena. You’ll also get a glimpse into the world of climate modeling, learning how data from expeditions like MOSAiC is used to improve forecasts. Finally, the course tackles the pressing challenges facing the Arctic today, from the impacts of climate change on shipping and energy exploration to the effects on indigenous communities and the ever-present threat of pollution.
“Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic” is more than just a course; it’s an immersive experience that brings the remote and vital Arctic to your fingertips. Whether you’re a student, a climate enthusiast, or simply curious about our planet’s most extreme environments, this course offers a comprehensive and captivating look at a region critical to global climate regulation. I highly recommend this course for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of climate science and the urgent need for Arctic research.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/frozen-in-the-ice