The BIO “Hespérides” Concludes Its XXI Antarctic Campaign

The oceanographic research vessel “Hespérides” has developed the scientific project “Mixto” in collaboration with the Argentine Naval Hydrography Service from March 11 to 18, collecting data and measurements for the study of the geological characteristics of the Argentine continental slope. The vessel is scheduled to dock in the port of Buenos Aires between March 20 and 26, reports the Spanish Navy.

During the months of December, January, and February, the BIO “Hespérides” operated in Antarctic waters, providing support to the Spanish Antarctic bases “Juan Carlos I” and “Gabriel de Castilla” and developing scientific projects on board.

It is currently on its return journey to Spain, having completed the scientific project “Mixto” in the South Atlantic. This route is also part of the first pilgrimage from Antarctica to Santiago de Compostela. The new pilgrimage path began at the “Gabriel de Castilla” base on Deception Island, passes through Ushuaia, Buenos Aires, and Cartagena, and reaches Santiago via land routes.

Additionally, to mark the passage of pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela through Buenos Aires, a welcoming and blessing ceremony is scheduled for March 22 at the Church of San Ignacio de Loyola, where the crew of the BIO “Hespérides” will walk from the northern dock carrying the pilgrimage banner.

The BIO “Hespérides” began its XXI Antarctic campaign on November 6, 2015, when it left its home port in Cartagena, where it is expected to return in mid-April.

Photo: Spanish Navy