NCM participates in first joint scientific expedition to South Pole

The UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has just marked a huge milestone in climate science by joining its first-ever joint expedition to the South Pole, teaming up with the Bulgarian Institute of Polar Research. This marks a major step for the UAE in solidifying its global presence in meteorology and climate science, as the country continues to build on its commitment to tackle climate challenges.

Two Emirati experts, Ahmed Al Kaabi, a meteorologist, and Badr Al Ameri, a seismologist, were part of the team, having gone through months of tough training to prepare for the harsh conditions in the polar regions. The training wasn’t easy, but it was crucial for ensuring the team was ready for the extreme isolation and unpredictable weather they would face during the mission.

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One of the main goals of the expedition was to set up two important monitoring stations: one for meteorology and another for seismic activity. These stations will collect key data on weather patterns and seismic activity, providing valuable insight into the South Pole’s unique environment. This data will help the NCM refine its weather forecasts and seismic models, and contribute to a better understanding of the planet’s climate systems.

But the mission didn’t stop at gathering data. Thanks to the use of virtual reality technology, the team documented their journey, offering a new, interactive way for people to experience this pioneering research. The footage aims to bring the importance of the expedition and its findings to a wider audience, giving people a virtual front-row seat to one of the world’s most remote places.

The research itself focuses on a few key areas: climate change, atmospheric composition, and polar meteorology. The South Pole plays a critical role in regulating Earth’s climate, so the team’s findings could provide a better understanding of how it impacts global weather patterns. The research also delves into important issues like ice melting and sea-level rise, both of which are major factors in climate change.

Even with the tough conditions—severe cold, isolation, and extreme weather—the team made significant breakthroughs. They were able to gather important atmospheric data to study how polar weather influences the climate globally, and also monitored the melting of ice and its effect on rising sea levels. Plus, they put advanced meteorological tools to the test, helping push forward research in the field.

Dr. Abdullah Al Mandous, Director General of the NCM and President of the World Meteorological Organization, expressed how important this mission is for the UAE’s growing role in global climate research. "This scientific expedition to the South Pole represents a significant step in enhancing the UAE's stature as a global hub for scientific research in meteorology and climate.

"This collaboration with the Bulgarian Institute for Polar Research demonstrates our commitment to actively engage with the international community to enhance knowledge and develop scientific solutions for current climate challenges."

"The data collected from this expedition will bolster our efforts to provide precise forecasts and improve our response to changing climate conditions. I look forward to further advancements in our research projects and enhancing international scientific cooperation that supports our efforts to address climate change and achieve sustainable development”. he added

As the UAE continues to make strides in scientific research, this mission is a clear reminder of the country’s growing influence in the fight against climate change. By participating in such groundbreaking projects, the UAE is reaffirming its dedication to environmental sustainability and a more sustainable future for the planet.