Research Areas

Scientific Lead: Rémi Losno (IPGP)

The sailing vessel PERSEVERANCE has the technical characteristics necessary for installing a continuous atmospheric measurement system in the marine environment. Its size allows for the integration of an elevated sampling mast, reducing the influence of local disturbances caused by sea spray, which typically affects the air layer located less than 25 meters above the surface. This configuration limits direct exposure of sensors to salt corrosion and improves the representativeness of air samples by avoiding the surface layer strongly influenced by the ocean surface. The data obtained are thus more relevant for characterizing the marine atmosphere at the regional scale.

Since June 2025, PERSEVERANCE has been acquiring continuous time series of concentrations of certain atmospheric pollutants: gaseous elemental mercury (Hg⁰), ozone (O₃), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Ozone and NOx are well known to the general public due to their role in calculating the Atmo index for urban air quality. However, the measurements conducted on board will concern regions far from urban sources, which will allow for the assessment of the persistence of anthropogenic pollution at long distances from emission zones. Analysis of the temporal and spatial variability of measured concentrations will contribute to improving understanding of the transformation and removal processes of these compounds in the atmosphere, as well as identifying potential natural sources.

The exclusive use of sail propulsion constitutes a significant advantage for atmospheric measurements, avoiding any direct contamination by exhaust gases, which is common near the thermal engines of traditional oceanographic vessels. PERSEVERANCE is thus part of an innovative approach, combining low environmental impact, energy efficiency, and scientific capabilities, and represents a relevant platform for research in atmospheric and ocean sciences.

Installation of the air sampling sensor on the foremast (left), connected to the NOx, O3, and Hg0 analyzers located in the scientific laboratory (right).

Analysis results are sent in real time to a server open to the general public for viewing results (example above): http://www.lge.ipgp.fr/Perseverance/