– For the first time in a drift, correct data on the acceleration of gravity was obtained. This was done using an absolute gravimeter, a high-precision, extremely expensive, fragile and very sensitive device. A priori it was impossible to incorporate it into traditional joint ventures. This opportunity appeared only with the launch of the North Pole LSP. Previously, work in this high-latitude region was carried out sporadically, on ships, from airplanes, but we were talking about relative gravimetric data. Now we can talk about absolutely precise measurements,” explained Dmitry Dronov, leading SP-42 specialist, employee of AARI. He highlighted that the country has an extensive gravimetric network, but the extreme north and adjacent territories remained practically unexplored, as they are inaccessible territories.
Let us remind you why gravimetric measurements (recording of gravity measurements on the surface of the planet) are needed. First of all, they provide information about the internal structure of the Earth and allow its physical parameters to be determined. Which in turn can be used for a variety of needs. Even to predict earthquakes and determine the boundaries of the continental shelf, which is extremely important now. After analyzing them, you will be able to get a more complete picture of what is happening. Gravimetry is also used in the exploration and production of mineral resources, primarily oil and gas. For example, using an absolute gravimeter you can see how depleted a tank is and, consequently, how to use it in the future. Gravimetry cannot be dispensed with when calculating launches of satellites and rocket-type aircraft. In general, the law of universal gravitation discovered by Newton has not yet been canceled.
Gravimetric facilities are located aboard the North Pole LSP. It is not necessary to take them out onto the ice field. LSP has two gravimeters: relative and absolute. Both are Russian made. One is from St. Petersburg, the second is the development of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences,
Thanks to the LSP format, it will be possible to collect a large amount of gravimetric data on the “white spots” in the north of the planet. Research will continue with SP-43, SP-44 and beyond.
I asked the polar explorer how he sees further human exploration of the Arctic.
– I would say that now the entire Arctic and expeditions are supported by amateurs, people in love with their work. When they get old or the expedition becomes a burden on them, it will be extremely difficult. To retain people and attract new, smart people, we need decent salaries. So that a person can calmly do his job and not think about how to feed his family. But at the same time, salaries should not be extremely high; otherwise random people will come who have no heart for the Arctic. That is, decisions about payment must be made carefully, the scientist said.
He shared his dream with RG: he wants to reach the shores of Antarctica in the new RV Akademik Frolov. The vessel has been laid down and is under construction. It is expected to come into operation in 2028 and will, in fact, replace (but with a new technical level) the NES “Akademik Fedorov”.
Read all the texts of the report “New “North Pole-42” expedition on a unique ship to the Arctic: Diary of an RG observer” here.
