The scientific ship that changed how we understand Earth may have sailed its last expedition

The Joides Resolution, a vessel that transformed our understanding of climate change, life’s origins, and natural disasters, faces an uncertain future after US funding was cut, jeopardizing further discoveries.

Andrea Prada Bianchi reports for The Guardian.

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In short:

• The Joides Resolution, vital to Earth science research for nearly 40 years, may no longer sail after 2024 due to budget cuts from the National Science Foundation.
• The ship's work has provided insights into climate history, earthquakes and the origins of life by drilling into the ocean floor to retrieve samples.
• Researchers worry that expertise developed over decades will be lost, stalling future scientific progress.

Key quote:

"We are losing our potential to read the history book of climate change.

— Thomas Ronge, Svalbard expedition project manager.

Why this matters:

The Joides Resolution has been central to understanding the climate crisis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and even the early chemistry of life itself. Without it, we’re potentially stalling advances in climate solutions and natural disaster preparedness at a time when we need them most. Read more: Scientists probe ancient history of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet and find unsettling news about sea level rise.