Seeing the Invisible: A New Way to View Ice

The initiative marks Aurora Expeditions as the first operator to apply thermal imaging technology at scale within a guest-facing science program. The project utilizes specialized cameras that detect surface temperature differences, allowing ice formations and glaciers to be viewed through heat signatures rather than visible light. This technology translates temperature data into colour, revealing “patterns not visible to the human eye” such as melt rates and structural weaknesses in the ice.

Developed in close collaboration with Muise, the project ensures that the data collected is “robust, repeatable and valuable for long-term study.” Guests aboard the line’s three purpose-built small ships—Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, and the newly delivered Douglas Mawson—will actively participate in image collection under the guidance of Aurora’s expert team of glaciologists and Citizen Science Coordinators.

Expert Perspectives

The collaboration is driven by a shared commitment to making scientific data collection accessible and impactful.

“This project allows us to see polar environments in an entirely new way,” said Joe Muise, TIPI founder. “Thermal imaging lets us visualise information the we normally can’t — allowing us to track temperature, melt, and subtle changes in ice. By piloting and strengthening the methodology in real expedition conditions, we’re laying the groundwork for what could become a valuable longitudinal dataset.”

The initiative aligns with Aurora Expeditions’ broader philosophy of science-led adventure. The company, a Certified B Corporation, has long integrated education and environmental stewardship into its voyages.

“At Aurora, we believe exploration comes with a responsibility to learn, share knowledge and contribute where we can,” said Michael Heath, Chief Executive Officer of Aurora Expeditions. “This collaboration reflects our approach — working alongside experts to help bring greater awareness to environmental change, while giving our expeditioners the opportunity to meaningfully engage with science in the places that matter most.”

A Fleet Built for Discovery

The program is now fully operational across Aurora’s fleet, which includes the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, and Douglas Mawson. These vessels, featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® design for smoother sailing and reduced emissions, provide the ideal platform for accessing remote polar regions where this data is most critical. By engaging travelers in the scientific process, Aurora Expeditions aims to build a global network of ambassadors who can share the story of the changing polar regions with the world.

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