Construction of the Polar Pod, which will be funded by the French government, has not yet begun, but Etienne hopes it will set sail in late 2023 or 2024. 'Like a satellite around Antarctica, Polar Pod will allow the acquisition of data and long-term observations that will be transmitted to researchers, oceanographers, climatologists [and] biologists,' Etienne says on his website. Despite its top-heavy appearance, Polar Pod is actually 'much more stable and comfortable than a traditional ship', he claims. 'The stability of the Polar Pod will allow the scientists to get this information.' However, four sailors on-board will be tasked with navigating and deploying sails to avoid icebergsConcept image shows Polar Pod during its flip manoeuvre.

Source: The Nation June 04, 2021 08:48 UTC