WAPSA Workshop at SCAR OSC 2026 and Online

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8th August 2026, 13:15 - 18:30 UTC+2 (Hyde Park C, SCAR OSC, Oslo & Online)
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The West Antarctic Peninsula is undergoing some of the most rapid environmental changes on Earth. Join researchers from across disciplines for an interactive workshop to identify key knowledge gaps, set future research priorities, and shape the next decade of WAPSA science. Through an interactive and collaborative afternoon, we will focus on two key questions:

  • What are the highest-priority research questions for the West Antarctic Peninsula and Scotia Arc over the next 5–10 years?
  • How could a coordinated WAPSA observing system help address these priorities and maximise scientific impact?

The workshop is organised by the SOOS West Antarctic Peninsula & Scotia Arc (WAPSA) Regional Working Group (RWG), and held on the 8th of August prior to the SCAR OSC 2026 in Oslo, Norway (RoomV) at 13:15 - 18:30 UTC+2. Online participation is available as well. 

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Objectives:

A major focus of the workshop will be revisiting the regional synthesis by Henley et al. (2019) and updating it to reflect the major scientific advances and new observations from the past five years.

Together, we will:

  • Identify pressing research priorities for the WAPSA region.
  • Outline a collaborative review paper to synthesise current understanding and guide future research, monitoring, and policy.
  • Explore improving regional capabilities by gathering community feedback on how a coordinated WAPSA observing system can support these research priorities and contribute to the upcoming International Polar Year.

Agenda (UTC+2):

13:15 - 13:45:Introduction and Meeting Goals
13:45 - 14:45:Current and Emerging Research Priorities in the WAPSA Region (Breakout groups)
14:45 - 15:30: General Discussion and Ranking of Key Priorities
15:30 - 16:00: Coffee Break
16:00 - 17:00: Discussion on the Need and Feasibility of a WAPSA Observing System (Breakout groups)
17:00 - 18:00: General Discussion and Ranking of Need and Feasibility of a WAPSA Observing System
18:00 - 18:30: Wrap Up and Next Steps

Whether you are an early-career researcher or have worked in the region for many years, your perspectives and expertise are invaluable. We welcome participants from all disciplines and encourage broad community engagement.

Together, we aim to shape the next decade of WAPSA science!

Any questions? Contact Carlos Moffat or Juan Hofer.

Register here...

Last modified: 22/07/2026/JB