Good news for German research and shipbuilding: The new Polarstern, the future flagship of German climate research, will be built in Wismar by thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. The contract for the construction of the new research icebreaker was awarded today by the Alfred-Wegener-Institute (AWI) after a European tendering process lasting almost two and a half years. The project, estimated to cost 1.185 billion euros, will be completed in five years, in 2030.
Antje Boetius: “A new milestone for science”
“We had to wait a long time for this moment. As much as we love the old Polarstern, science urgently needs a new research vessel that can use modern technologies,” says Prof. Dr. Antje Boetius, Director of the AWI. “With the new Polarstern, we can better address urgently needed issues and continue research at the highest international level.”
State-of-the-art technology for groundbreaking research
The new Polarstern will be equipped with state-of-the-art technologies such as underwater robots, unmanned aerial vehicles, and new drilling technologies. It will also be able to reach areas that are too dangerous for the old Polarstern. The icebreaker will have space for 60 to 90 scientists and 50 crew members and will be used primarily in the polar regions to provide important data on the effects of climate change and environmental protection.
Sustainability as a key feature
An outstanding feature of the new ship is its sustainable propulsion system, which can also run on green methanol. It makes Polarstern II one of the most environmentally friendly icebreakers in the world.
Economic impetus and long-term prospects
The construction of the ship is expected to create around 1,500 jobs and further strengthen Germany as a center of science. The new Polarstern will also supply Neumayer Station III in the Antarctic and will have a service life of at least 30 years.
Research and future technologies combined
“This project sets new standards for research and sustainable technologies,” says Prof. Dr. Otmar Wiestler, President of the Helmholtz Association. The AWI project team, led by Detlef Wilde, will supervise the construction and final handover of the ship after its completion.
