In Antarctica, scientists Ji-Yeon Cheon and Hyunjae Chung have been tagging Weddell seals with satellite tracking devices to gather critical data about the ocean beneath the ice sheets. The researchers meticulously approach the seals to sedate them for tagging, allowing them to monitor the seals' movements and the water properties in the region. This research is being carried out around the Thwaites Glacier, an area of significant scientific interest due to its potential impact on global sea levels.

The devices attached to the seals will record their movements, along with the oceanic environment as they dive and feed in the coming months. As the seals surface, this data will be transmitted via satellite, providing valuable insights into how accelerating climate change is impacting marine ecosystems. This research represents a significant step in understanding the broader implications of ocean warming on both local and global scales.

By studying the behavior and habitat of Weddell seals, the researchers aim to gather data essential for predictive models of climate change effects on the Antarctic region. The work highlights the innovative methods being employed in climate research and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between marine biologists and ecologists in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.