An adventurer is set to deploy an ocean profiling instrument during his solo global sailing trip.
James Ketchell, who has previously cycled and flown around the world, is partnering with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) for his latest mission. He will launch his 30,000 nautical mile journey on Sunday, September 22, from Gosport, on his Class 40 yacht.
Mr Ketchell will be using an Argo float, which can autonomously take critical measurements such as temperature and salinity down to 2,000 metres in the ocean.
These measurements provide unique insights into underwater conditions, affecting everything from global weather trends to marine ecosystem health.
The Argo float will be deployed in the Indian Ocean after Mr Ketchell stops in Cape Town.
The data from the float will be publicly available and can be tracked alongside the rest of the Argo fleet, which has reached a milestone of three million profiles.
Mr Ketchell, 42, said: "It’s a real honour and privilege to be able to deploy an Argo float and represent NOC. The Argo Programme revolutionised how ocean data is gathered, helping to feed global weather forecasting models and how we understand the climate.
"My project is about inspiring young people, instilling in them that sense of purpose and having a goal. This is such a great example of that, and I look forward to sharing this story on my journey and tracking where the float I deploy on its adventure, long after I’ve completed mine."
This fleet is part of the international Argo programme, with more than 3,600 floats globally, to which the NOC contributes.
Mr Ketchell's journey is divided into legs, with stops in Lanzarote, Cape Town, Melbourne, Punta Del Este in Uruguay, Antigua, and New York, before returning to Gosport, UK.
Mr Ketchell will also be supporting ocean education during his journey, through live streaming and school visits in the ports he stops at.
The journey aims to contribute to the global understanding of ocean conditions, with the data collected being used by scientists worldwide.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here