A lifelong dream of Katie MacIntosh was to visit Antarctica, yet her initial experience on the continent didn’t go as expected. While attempting to snorkel from her zodiac to the shore, she discovered her wetsuit was leaking, causing both physical discomfort and emotional awe at setting foot on a continent so few people, especially women in science, have the opportunity to explore.
MacIntosh, along with two other geoscientists from Nova Scotia, embarked on a month-long research expedition to Antarctica, joining a group of two dozen women experts from various fields led by Sea Women Expeditions to investigate climate change impacts.
Coincidentally, three out of four leaders in underwater robotics were from Nova Scotia, showcasing the province’s strong presence in ocean science. MacIntosh, a marine geomatics engineer originally from Antigonish and now based in London, oversaw the planning and technology aspects of the expedition.
The team engaged in weeks of scuba diving and snorkeling to gather underwater data, studying leopard seal behavior, testing whale bones, and mapping glaciers. Despite the seriousness of their work, they infused a touch of their maritime roots by deploying robotic equipment from a zodiac while playing traditional Maritime tunes.
Heather Pearce, a geoscientist consultant from Chester working with WSP Canada, dived near glaciers to study benthic marine life. She cherished the experience of descending into the water off the boat, making it a memorable moment.
Denise Brushett, originally from Lake Ainslie and now residing in Halifax, specializes in mapping and was captivated by the sight of ice in Antarctica. She felt moved by the bright surroundings, witnessing whales, icebergs, and the stark reality of melting ice leading to the formation of new lagoons.
Brushett now feels a responsibility to share their experiences and observations with others, intending to analyze the collected data over the next year and educate students on climate change awareness.
The team’s expedition marked a significant chapter in their careers, leaving them with lasting memories of Antarctica’s beauty and the urgent need to address climate change issues.
