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CSIRO Launches 7-Metre Saildrone to Measure Antarctic Carbon

By Drooid · Sep 25, 2026, 11:53 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

CSIRO launched a seven-metre autonomous Saildrone to circumnavigate Antarctica and collect carbon data.
The vessel will travel about 22,000 km over seven to nine months.
Sensors will record wind, pressure, temperature, salinity, chlorophyll and CO2 in water and air.
Dr Elizabeth Shadwick said the data will improve understanding of the Southern Ocean carbon sink.
Dr Pep Canadell noted oceans remove about 500 kg CO2 per tonne emitted, offsetting 50% of forcing.

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Story summary

CSIRO launched a seven-metre autonomous Saildrone to circumnavigate Antarctica and collect carbon data.
The vessel will travel about 22,000 km over seven to nine months.
Sensors will record wind, pressure, temperature, salinity, chlorophyll and CO2 in water and air.
Dr Elizabeth Shadwick said the data will improve understanding of the Southern Ocean carbon sink.
Dr Pep Canadell noted oceans remove about 500 kg CO2 per tonne emitted, offsetting 50% of forcing.