GOOS - Launch of the International Polar Year

Launch of the International Polar Year

The International Polar Year 2007-2008 (IPY) was officially inaugurated on 1 March 2007. The celebration held at the Palais de la Découverte, Paris, launched the two-year programme of Arctic and Antarctic Polar research. The event was presided by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and covered by the international media. In attendance were representatives of the ICSU and WMO, as well as all members of the Joint Committee who have been working tirelessly for four years to reach this point. In co-ordination with the international opening ceremony in Paris, dozens of IPY opening events were held around the globe, including many educational programmes hosted in schools and museums .

Now the real purpose of the IPY will begin when the 220 science projects involving thousands of scientists from over 60 countries begin their work and co-ordination. This IPY differs from the previous IPY's (1882-83, 1932-33 and 1957-58) by integrating inter-disciplinary science and building partnerships with indigenous communities to provide a wide ranging view of the natural and social sciences of the Polar regions. More information on the new IOC IPY website.