UJ geologists set to embark on landmark Antarctic expedition
After a five-year hiatus, South African geologists will return to Antarctica for a three-year fieldwork study through a National Research Foundation (NRF) grant by the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). The grant was awarded to Dr Herman van Niekerk and colleagues, Professors Marlina Elburg and Geoff Grantham from the University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s Geology Department. This grant will facilitate research in one of the world’s most challenging and remote environments, focusing on geological phenomena that offer critical insights into Earth’s history and tectonic evolution.
Dr van Niekerk’s expedition will embark on pioneering fieldwork in Antarctica, starting this 2024/2025 austral summer season and continuing through 2026/2027.
“Hopefully, this research sheds more light on the contrasting geological evolution between regions within the continent: areas that have remained ice-covered for millennia versus those exposed, revealing diverse geological features,” says Dr van Niekerk adding that such a study is essential for understanding the land’s ancient connections with other continents and how its current landscape has been shaped by tectonic processes and climatic shifts over millions of years”.
He further explains that one primary focus is on the Grunehogna Craton’s position and its relation to the Kaapvaal Craton which forms the basis of much of the geology of South Africa.
“Studying ancient rocks in Antarctica, especially those within cratons like the Grunehogna Craton, gives us a glimpse into Earth’s deep past, helping us forecast future climate changes. Cratons, which are exceptionally stable and ancient parts of Earth’s crust, preserve geological records of events stretching back billions of years. By examining the structure and mineral makeup of rocks in these regions, scientists can reveal patterns in tectonic shifts, atmospheric compositions, and climate conditions of ancient times”.
Dr van Niekerk explains that the Grunehogna Craton in Antarctica retains a wealth of information about the breakup of Gondwanaland, the supercontinent that fractured and drifted to form today’s continents.
“Through techniques like sedimentology (studying rock layers and formations) and paleomagnetic analysis (examining magnetic properties in rocks), scientists can track how continents moved and climates shifted over time. Such studies allow researchers to compare Antarctica’s geological past with South African geology, helping them understand the processes that once affected vast stretches of the southern hemisphere. One example of the benefit of this research is its ability to shed light on past global warming events and their triggers, such as volcanic eruptions or shifts in tectonic plates that released large quantities of greenhouse gases. By identifying these patterns, we gain predictive insights into how similar tectonic activities or greenhouse gas releases might influence future climate conditions. Essentially, analysing these ancient rocks offers a window into Earth’s climate cycles, equipping us with invaluable data to anticipate and perhaps mitigate potential climate shifts driven by natural and human factors alike.”
Set to depart on December 5, 2024, aboard the South African polar vessel SA Agulhas II, the team, which includes Dr van Niekerk, veteran field geologist Mike Knoper, prospective PhD candidate Dewan Isaacs, and prospective MSc student Mulanga Masakona, will journey to Dronning Maud Land. Working hundreds of kilometres south of the SANAE IV base, the team will rely on snowmobiles to transport their tents, fuel, and equipment across the ice, all while living under extreme conditions for the entirety of their research period.
“This expedition is an unparalleled opportunity not only to contribute to global geological knowledge but also to inspire a new generation of Antarctic researchers,” Dr van Niekerk shared ahead of the expedition. “We’re pushing the boundaries of geoscientific research under some of the harshest conditions on Earth, and the data we gather will have implications far beyond Antarctica”.
A defining feature of this expedition is the training and development of postgraduate students, who will have the rare opportunity to conduct field research in one of the last frontiers of Earth. This hands-on experience will be invaluable for their careers, as the data gathered will contribute to studies that support a global understanding of geological processes. Additionally, the research will be conducted in collaboration with international experts, reinforcing South Africa’s role in global Antarctic research.
Dr van Niekerk shared that there was a rigorous selection process that took place to have the final two students. After receiving over 90 initial applications, this number trimmed down significantly after he shared the necessary criteria. With the final two students who made the cut, they will now undergo training to ensure that they are adequately prepared.
“Once we get to the base, I will first conduct some training, teach them crevasse rescue techniques, rope work training and other important things to ensure they are adequately prepared. While we have started with the work, its very different doing these things on the ice. They will also learn how to drive snowmobiles, how to pull the sleds with all our equipment. Then, once I feel they are prepared, and the weather allows, the expedition will begin in earnest.”
The real-time tracking of the team’s movements through Garmin InReach Mapshare will allow the academic community and the public to follow their progress. They will also have satellite phones which will allow them to maintain communication with the base for their safety. This transparency not only enhances safety but also serves as an educational tool, bridging the gap between the icy, distant landscapes of Antarctica and the rest of the world.
“We’ll be working this year about 200km south of the base. Here, we’ll live in very specific tents that are made for those conditions. We’ll be in our tents for about six to seven weeks.”
The team’s camp in the Antartic. Photo: SuppliedThis mission marks a milestone for UJ as the only South African institution actively conducting field-based research in Antarctica. The commitment, resilience, and expertise of UJ’s geology team exemplify South Africa’s ongoing contribution to Antarctic research and highlight the value of UJ’s focus on advanced, impactful scientific exploration. This expedition underscores UJ’s strategic emphasis on international collaboration and the advancement of scientific education.
Dr van Niekerk underscored the importance of this work not only for UJ and South Africa, but the continent.
“South Africa is the only African country with a base in Antarctica. We have the polar ship which not many countries have. Beyond the very clear importance for the Sciences of continuing this research is also the need to equip young people, future researchers to continue with this work”.
This expedition is a testament to the University of Johannesburg’s dedication to fostering scientific excellence and sustainability, and we look forward to sharing updates as Dr van Niekerk and his team embark on this remarkable journey.
