by Ria Olivier | Sep 29, 2023 | Marion Island, Research, Science
A few hundred million years after the big bang, the first stars in the universe were born during a period known as cosmic dawn.
This epoch is uncharted territory: the first and only tentative detection of cosmic dawn was reported in 2018, thus opening a new window into the universe’s past that is ripe for new discoveries.
Telescopes aiming to study cosmic dawn must observe at radio frequencies (<150 MHz). These frequencies are exceptionally difficult to measure because of contamination from terrestrial radio-frequency interference and ionospheric effects.
Our team has demonstrated that Marion Island truly offers a South African geographic advantage for low-frequency radio astronomy. The radio-quiet environment of Marion is unparalleled, surpassing even the Karoo desert, which is one of the premier radio observatory sites and the future location of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
With its clean observing conditions, Marion Island gives a unique opportunity to deliver high impact science that is impossible to conduct anywhere else in the world.
Radio astronomy experiment (ALBATROS) on Marion Island.
The project has installed two radio astronomy experiments on Marion Island. The first, named PRIZM, is searching for the signal from cosmic dawn and has been operating for three years. We are continuing these observations, coupled with instrument upgrades and rigorous calibration campaigns in order to obtain a robust detection. The second experiment, ALBATROS (above), is a companion project that aims to image the radio sky at <30 MHz, improving upon the resolution of current results by a factor of 20-30.
We have proven the technology with a few pathfinder antennas, and we are building and installing additional antennas to complete the full ALBATROS array. Our work is well timed to take advantage of the current solar minimum. The reduced ionospheric activity may allow us to probe the sky at particularly low observational frequencies that are otherwise difficult or impossible to access.
Prof Kavilan Moodley is the Principal Investigator on the project hosted at The Astrophysics Research Centre (ARC) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). The Astrophysics Research Centre (ARC) is part of the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science at UKZN. We strive to be a world-class centre of excellence for research and postgraduate training in astrophysics and related data-intensive science. The management of the project is done by Prof. H. Cynthia Chiang and Prof. Jonathan Sievers.
Read a recent Q&A session with Professor Cynthia Chiang, experimental physicist, in the Quanta Magazine. See link below.
The Experimental Cosmologist Hunting for the First Sunrise | Quanta Magazine
Read here more about the project.
Text and Images by Prof Cynthia Chiang, Originally posted on 12 August 2021.
Edited by Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 29 September 202
by Rabia Mathakutha | Sep 28, 2023 | Commemorative Days, Current Event, Important Dates, International Days, SA Agulhas II, SA Polar Infratsructure, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SANAP, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, Science, Southern Ocean, Uncategorised
Today marks World Maritime Day, a global commemorative day celebrated every last Thursday of September. This annual observance serves as a tribute to the indispensable maritime industry and its pivotal role in connecting nations, enabling trade, and fostering economic growth. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges facing the maritime sector and advocate for sustainable practices in an ever-changing world.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has announced that this year’s World Maritime Day theme is “MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on”. This theme highlights the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) on 2 November 1973. MARPOL focuses on preventing pollution of the marine environment caused by ships, whether it be from operational activities or accidental incidents.
International Cooperation and Sustainable Shipping
IMO currently has 175 Member States and three Associate Members. South Africa has been a member state of the IMO since 1995, sharing the responsibility to prevent pollution from ships.
In alignment with this year’s theme for World Maritime Day, we are reminded of the proactive measures taken by the country’s Department of Transport. In September 2022, they proposed amendments to the Marine Pollution (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Act. One notable proposal is the potential increase in fines for ship pollution from R500,000 to R10 million, aiming to make non-compliance financially burdensome. These amendments specifically address the proper treatment and safe disposal of sewage from ships, as well as efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
The South African research and supply vessel, the S.A. Agulhas II, is an example of a large ship that meets and complies with the regulations set forth in MARPOL. With its ice-breaking capability, the S.A. Agulhas II frequently navigates the Southern Ocean and Antarctic waters for scientific and research purposes as part of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP).
S.A. Agulhas II entering the Port of Cape Town, on return from the sub-Antarctic Marion Island. Image credit: Abuyiselwe Nguna (SAPRI LTO:Land Research Coordinator).
The S. A. Agulhas II is a state-of-the-art vessel that has been constructed with effective waste management systems. It is equipped with an advanced in-house waste water treatment system that efficiently treats liquid waste, sewage, and greywater before storing or disposing of them within permitted limits. Grease traps are utilised to manage greasy liquid waste, and a comprehensive garbage management plan is in place for all solid waste. These measures ensure adherence to both national and international maritime waste policies, while also supporting South Africa’s leadership in marine and Antarctic research expeditions through SANAP.
Celebrating South Africa’s Seafarers
The SANAP and SAPRI have published The Maritime Interview Series to pay tribute to the seafarers who play a crucial role in the success of the maritime industry. These individuals dedicate their lives to seamanship and are responsible for navigating the S.A. Agulhas II across the Southern, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans for various marine and Antarctic research expeditions. The interview series features six seafarers who work on the S. A. Agulhas II through the vessel managing agent, African Marine Solutions (AMSOL). To learn more about these local heroes in the maritime industry, please visit the links provided below.
The Maritime Interview Series 2023
World Maritime Day encourages us to reflect on the importance of sustainability, safety, and international cooperation in ensuring the enduring prosperity of this sector. As we chart a course toward a more sustainable future, let us acknowledge and appreciate the dedication of those who keep the world’s seas and oceans alive. Together, we can work towards safeguarding these invaluable natural resources for generations to come.
To our local seafarers, we say THANK YOU, for your dedication and endurance while at sea!
Written by: Rabia Mathakutha, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 28 September 2023
Edited by: Anche Louw (South African Polar Research Infrastructure) and Ria Olivier (Antarctic Legacy of South Africa)
by Ria Olivier | Sep 13, 2023 | Announcement, Antarctica, Engineering, Gough Island, Marion Island, News, Prince Edward Islands, Research, SA Agulhas II, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SANAP, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, Science, Southern Ocean, Stations
On the 1st of August, Errol Julies joined the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) as a Senior Electronics Technician, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set. His responsibilities at SAPRI encompass the maintenance of offshore marine infrastructure, asset management and supply chain management processes, providing technical support to researchers and students, ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and upgrading communication systems at the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) research stations (bases), particularly the High Frequency (HF) systems at Marion Island between the base and field huts. Errol’s previous background and experiences make him an ideal fit for his role at SAPRI, where he continues to make significant contributions.
Meet Errol Julies: A Remarkable Journey of dedication and expertise
Errol Julies, hailing from the small town of De Doorns and having attended secondary school in Worcester, has embarked on an extraordinary path that has led him to become a highly accomplished professional in the scientific and research field.
Errol’s initial foray into the world of work began as an assistant train driver, but it was his introduction to the scientific realm at the Hermanus Magnetic Observatory (HMO), now known as the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), that truly ignited his passion. Starting as a general cleaner at HMO, Errol simultaneously pursued part-time studies and eventually obtained a BTech degree in Electrical Engineering.
For an impressive 17 years, Errol served as a Geomagnetic Observatory Technician at SANSA. In this role, he excelled in installing, maintaining, and monitoring geomagnetic and Magnetotelluric stations across Southern Africa. These stations adhered to the esteemed INTERMAGNET standards, a testament to Errol’s dedication in ensuring their construction and upkeep at the highest level. Additionally, Errol played a pivotal role in training aspiring geomagnetic observers from around the world during the biannual geomagnetic workshops hosted in different countries.
In 2015, Errol joined the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) as an Engineering Technician, specialising in telecommunications and instrumentation. His responsibilities encompassed managing the Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) communications system from Cape Town to the SANAP bases, conducting calibration and testing of electronic equipment and instruments, and overseeing the maintenance and upgrade of electronic and HF equipment at all SANAP bases in accordance with specifications. Furthermore, Errol took on the role of Departmental Coordinating Officer (DCO), leading numerous voyages to the SANAP bases and successfully coordinating a voyage to Gough Island all by himself.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge and personal growth, Errol completed his BTech degree in Project Management in 2018, despite the challenges encountered during his voyage to Gough Island. In 2019 and 2020, he further demonstrated his resilience and expertise by overwintering on Gough Island as a Communication Engineer and team leader on the 65th Gough Island overwintering team. Currently, Errol is pursuing a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), focusing on Mathematics and Mathematics Literacy for the Senior Phase and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. This endeavor aims to support learners and students in his community through evening classes.
Errol Julies’ journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. His remarkable achievements and vast knowledge in the scientific and research field make him an invaluable asset to any organisation fortunate enough to have him on board.
Welcome to the SAPRI team, Errol!
Images supplied by Errol Julies.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 13 September 2023
by Ria Olivier | Sep 9, 2023 | Announcement, Antarctica, Gough Island, News, Research, SA Agulhas II, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SANAE IV, SANAP, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, Science, SEAmester, Southern Ocean, Stations, STEM
The South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) is a business unit of the National Research Foundation (NRF).
NRF SAEON celebrated its 21st anniversary on 7 September 2023. See the event programme below.
It is inspiring to see what SAEON has achieved over 21 years. “SAEON encompasses seven Research Nodes throughout South Africa and a National Office that is located in the country’s political capital of Pretoria” (Read more about the nodes here).
SAEON manages three research infrastructures developed by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) as part of the South African Research Infrastructure Roadmap (SARIR). The South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) is one of the three research infrastructures, and was established in 2021 (see the SAPRI timeline here). The SAPRI hub is located in the SAEON Egagasini Node offices in Cape Town.
The SAEON Egagasini Node and SAPRI team at the NRF SAEON 21st Anniversary. Video: click on the image.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 09 September 2023
by Ria Olivier | Aug 25, 2023 | Antarctica, Legacy, Marion Island, News, Prince Edward Islands, Research, SA Agulhas II, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SANAE IV, SANAP, SAPolarRI, Science, Southern Ocean, Stations, STEM, sub-Antarctic
The South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) with the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA) and the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) Egagasini Node visited Generation Schools Imhoff, in Kommetjie on 20 July 2023.
Generations Primary is based on the Montessori ethos of independent children working and the Cambridge model of education. The school structure consists of various phases with mixed-age groupings “which allows children to work together, to learn from and teach each other.” The mixed-age group 9 – 12 years has recently completed projects and tasks related to the Antarctic environment, creating a space where learners can develop, in a creative way, a sense of the 7th continent. The invite to visit the school to further connect the application of academics in the real world was welcomed.
The 110 learners with teachers, were presented with a rhythmic exercise with boom-whackers (musical plastic tubes) as an ice-breaker activity, which was followed by a “Journey through the Southern Ocean, via Marion Island, to Antarctica”, which was presented by Ria Olivier (ALSA), Sikelelwa Mtyenene (SAEON Egagasini Node), Abuyiselwe Nguna (SAPRI) and Riesna R. Audh (SAPRI). Various interactive exhibits were set up in the school hall, which further gave learners the opportunity to interact with the ALSA, SAPRI and SAEON teams.
“Journey through the Southern Ocean, via Marion Island, to Antarctica”
Follow the journey below.
 | Start at Cape Town Harbour - Ria Olivier
History: Archivist with 10 years' involvement in SANAP and Principal Investigator of the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa project, talks about South Africa's involvement in the Antarctic regions. |
 | Sail past the coast of South Africa - Sikelelwa Mtyenene
Coastal voyage: research conducted in the coast off South Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. |
 | Stop at Marion Island - Abuyiselwe Nguna
Science weather, fauna and flora. The speaker shares his experience as a field assistant, part of a Marion Island overwintering team member. |
 | Cross the Southern Ocean - Riesna Audh
Oceanographic sampling on board the South African research and supply vessel, the S.A. Agulhas II. |
 | Pass seaice and icebergs - Riesna Audh
The speaker has been on board the S.A. Agulhas II during various Antarctic expeditions (counting to over 300 days in total), for her research on sea ice in the Antarctic marginal ice zone. She shares her experiences. |
 | Arrive at Antarctica - Abuyiselwe Nguna
What you can expect. Antarctic operations. Clothing (protective gear) and more info about the South African National Antarctic Expedition station (SANAE IV). |
Interactive exhibits
This collaborative science engagement event was focused on communicating marine and Antarctic research in such a way to foster curiosity for these regions. The school also received a set of books sponsored by the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (see image below).
Video: Leaving fingerprints on Antarctica.
Graphic element (Journey to Antarctica) designed by: Riesna R. Audh, SAPRI, Polar Lab.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 25 August 2023.
by Ria Olivier | Aug 9, 2023 | Commemorative Days, Important Dates, News, Research, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, Science, Southern Ocean, Women in Science
Prof Juliet Hermes is the Manager of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI), the Manager of the NRF- SAEON Egagasini Node, Honorary Professor at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Professor at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and heavily involved in a number of international programs and committees where she represent the fantastic work being done in South Africa and Africa as a whole (see list below). She is a passionate physical oceanographer who loves the ocean, a mom of two boys and her life is guided by the words of late Nelson Mandela:
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that you have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”
She makes a difference in her working environment through her collaborative nature and approachable demeanor.
“At the NRF- SAEON Egagasini Node I am supported by an incredible team consisting of biodiversity, modelling, observing and engagement specialists and of course administrative support. Together we advance our understanding of the marine offshore environment and our ability to detect, predict and react to global change through long term observations, modelling and research data”.
From Interim SAPRI Manager to SAPRI Manager
Juliet was initially involved in SAPRI as the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) institutional champion and worked closely with Dr Tammy Morris and Prof Marcello Vichi in writing the original proposal and following business plan for SAPRI. As the manager of the NRF-SAEON Egagasini Node, which hosts the SAPRI LTO-Land and LTO-Ocean integrated facilities (IFs), she was made the interim manager of SAPRI in November 2021. Following discussions with the National Research Foundation (NRF), Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) this role was then made permanent on the 1st of April 2023.
“It is a team effort with SAPRI and SAEON staff working closely together and the community also supporting us through the different user fora”.
Read more about the SAPRI IFs here.
Role of the SAPRI Manager
The role will change over time, the first 3 years will be overseeing the implementation of SAPRI – setting up the governance, employing the staff, overseeing the user fora groups, reporting to the advisory committees, the NRF and the DSI, working with DFFE, the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) and the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA) to integrate SAPRI and to maximize marine and polar sciences in South Africa. Understand the stakeholder needs and support the current community, whilst driving transformation and bringing in new stakeholders in terms of disciplines and institutes. A key aspect is also ensuring the sustainability of long term observations in the marine and polar space, and resolving long going issues between science and logistics.
Once the implementation has happened the role will be more in overseeing the operations, sourcing additional funding, driving transformation and continuing to work closely with DFFE and SANAP.
My expectations for SAPRI are for it to fulfill its vision: “to enable balanced and transformed research growth across the multiplicity of marine and polar disciplines, and to maintain and further expand the world-class, long-term observational research infrastructure and datasets already established within the South African marine and polar research environment.”
Juliet represent South Africa (and Africa) in the following international programs and committees:
- Ocean Decade task force to implement the Africa roadmap (read more here).
- Chair of the Climate and Ocean – Variability, Predictability, and Change (CLIVAR) Indian Ocean Regional Panel.
- Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association Academic Group (IORAG) and the node hosts the South African chapter for this.
- Ocean Decade working groups (on capacity development and adaptation).
- Executive committee member of International Association for the Physical Sciences of the Oceans (IAPSO).
- Vice chair on the Observation Coordination Group.
- Work closely with The Global Ocean Observing System for Africa (GOOS for AFRICA).
Read more: Second professorship for SAEON’s Juliet Hermes
Images and text supplied by Juliet Hermes.
Anche Louw, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 09 August 2023.
