The R/V Sikuliaq: A new technologically advanced research platform for the Arctic

Abstract:

The R/V Sikuliaq was completed and delivered to the University of Alaska, the operating institution, in June, 2014. The ice capable, global class Sikuliaq will enable access to Arctic regions during the relatively undersampled spring and fall shoulder seasons. The vessel is equipped with an advanced suite of meteorological, sonar, and seawater sensors, including sampling of seawater properties, currents, bottom topography and subsurface profiling, multiple types of atmospheric radiation, and active bioacoustics. Preliminary data collected during the acceptance trials, open water science trials (conducted in September 2014), and transits through the Atlantic and Pacific to the first science cruise out of Hawaii will be shown.