High Arctic, 27 July 2026

The Polar Connect 2026 expedition will conduct detailed seabed mapping in the Arctic Ocean at several particularly challenging sections along the proposed cable route. One of these is located on a mid-ocean spreading ridge, where two tectonic plates are gradually moving apart at a rate of a few centimetres per year. Laying a cable across a spreading zone is not unusual—it is unavoidable on routes such as those between Europe and North America. However, selecting the right location is essential.

While the mapping is underway, experts on board are working together to address the pioneering challenges of laying a fibre-optic cable on the seabed beneath permanent sea ice. The expedition brings together expertise in fibre-optic technology, submarine cable installation, ship design, Arctic navigation and environmental science.

After departing Longyearbyen on Friday evening, we reached the sea ice just north of 80°N early on Sunday morning. I have worked with research activities involving Oden for more than ten years, but this is my first time participating in an expedition. I had, of course, seen countless photographs and videos and heard many stories. None of them, however, comes close to experiencing it firsthand—the landscape, Oden's power and capability, and the remarkable skill of the crew and scientists.

I believe this impression is shared by many of the experts on board who are also experiencing this environment for the first time. That firsthand understanding is invaluable in helping us reach sound conclusions about the best approach when the time comes to lay the cable.

Text: Ulf Jonsell, Expedition Coordinator