The new Polarstern

Using cutting-edge technologies to explore the most remote regions of our planet.

She’ll be a ship like no other

Icebreaker, multidisciplinary research platform – and pioneer: Germany is currently constructing a modern polar research and resupply vessel to succeed the Polarstern. She will be the lifeline to the Arctic and Antarctic, not to mention a shining example of sustainability and innovation in shipping. She will ensure that top-notch research continues in the future, offering the global community new insights into how our oceans and polar regions can be protected.

The new Polarstern

Visualization of Polarstern on the water.

Visualization of a device being deployed via a winch.

Moon pool: Device deployed through a shaft inside the ship

Polarstern new build: The Alfred Wegener Institute is steering toward the future with a new ship.

Facts & Figures

Six milestones on the way to the new ship.

Call for tenders begins

With the approval of the 2022 federal budget by the German Bundestag, the call for tenders, and the search for the ideal shipyard, begins.
Shipyard selected

The AWI and the shipyard thyssenkrupp Marine Systems sign the contract for constructing the new Polarstern.
First steel-cutting

Here we go! The first steel plate for the new ship is cut.
Keel-laying

In an official ceremony, the keel of the new Polarstern is laid, marking the birth of the new ship.
Launching

During the traditional launching, the new ship is transported to the water for the first time.
Christening

Wishing her safe travels and always a hand’s width of water under her keel: Germany’s new research icebreaker is christened.
Maiden voyage

After years of planning and construction, the new Polarstern can finally depart for her first expedition.