Russia's flag is raised above the government's headquarters in Moscow.
Photo: Pavel Smertin
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Russia’s Flag to Be Raised at Arctic Depth of 4km
The expedition of Russia’s scientists that starts today from Murmansk to become the biggest undertaking in all history of North Pole’s exploration will raise the flag of Russia deep in the Arctic Ocean. Academician Fedorov motorship and Rossia atomic icebreaker are ready to sail.
The last preparations for the most deepwater Odyssey of Russia’s scientists have been completed. Deep-operating Mir-1 and Mir-2 are ready for delivery to the diving point by Academician Fedorov vessel. During the expedition, researchers of over 20 institutes will attempt to collect all data available about the length of Russia’ continental shelf. The information will be also of utmost importance to study the global changes of climate.
Picking out Tuesday for departure wasn’t accidental. Under the old naval tradition, captains avoid taking the sea Monday. Rossia atomic icebreaker will lead Academician Fedorov through the Arctic ice, and Mi-8 helicopters will ensure the air support.
This Arctic effort will last for a fortnight. In late July, Mir-1 and Mir-2 are to reach the Arctic Ocean’s bottom near the Franz Josef Land, first time under the ice and to the depth of 4,200 meters, where the flag of Russia will be raised. The most difficult operation will be hoisting bathyscaphs back through the ice-hole, the scientists forecast.
www.kommersant.com
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