VOYAGE FACTSHEET | IN2026_V06
Measuring Pacific Ocean change and
variability from the equator to the Antarctic ice edge
About the voyage
Australia’s ocean research vessel (RV) Investigator is undertaking a research voyage to monitor
ocean change and variability in the western Pacific Ocean. This region is being strongly impacted
by warming waters, ocean acidification and Antarctic melting, but has some of the least data and
observations. This voyage will complete a full ocean survey along the critical 170°W section of the
Pacific Ocean from the equator to the Antarctic ice edge as part of the GO-SHIP collaboration.
Led by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, the voyage will generate critical ocean
observations to better understand how climate change is affecting the western Pacific Ocean and
vice versa. Data collected will contribute to global climate models, regional climate projections,
and IPBES and IPCC assessments. For Pacific Nations facing acute climate risks, evidence-based
understanding of changing ocean conditions is essential for planning infrastructure, protecting
communities and managing marine resources.
In total, the voyage will be approximately 9,000 nautical miles long and split into two legs:
• Leg 1: Lautoka (Fiji) to Wellington (New Zealand) – 40 days at sea
• Leg 2: Wellington (New Zealand) to Hobart (Australia) – 35 days at sea.
The voyage departs Lautoka on 27 September 2026 and arrives in Hobart on 16 December 2026.
The voyage includes researchers from Australia, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Italy,
New Zealand and the United States. Importantly, the participation of four Pacific Nations’ early
career researchers will contribute to building long-term scientific capability in the Pacific region.
About the vessel
RV Investigator is Australia’s dedicated ocean research vessel and is operated by Australia’s
national science agency, CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation).
This advanced 94-metre ocean-class research vessel enables a wide range of atmospheric,
biological, geophysical and oceanographic research. The vessel has been designed to
accommodate 60 scientists and crew on voyages up to 60 days and 10,000 nautical miles.
RV Investigator is part of Australia’s Marine National Facility, collaborative national research
infrastructure funded by the Australian Government and operated by CSIRO.
Read more about the CSIRO Marine National Facility and RV Investigator at www.csiro.au/mnf