While the ice conditions made travel a bit easier, it was sad to witness the effects of global warming on sea ice thickness and extent.
On our way back from the Central Arctic, after we deployed all the scientific equipment, we encountered a particularly thick ice floe that took several hours of backing and ramming the ship to break through. If we had not been in a powerful vessel, we may have needed to call for assistance from the Polarstern or another ship, which would have significantly delayed the expedition. Luckily, we were able to get through on our own and continue back to Norway!
