METEOR (III) [1986-2026] M216

The M216 expedition aboard the research vessel METEOR traces a central measurement line across the entire Mediterranean Sea. Through its observations, the cruise contributes to a time series that has systematically documented how various ocean parameters have changed since 2011.
Along the route, for example, researchers investigate how circulation and mixing are evolving as a result of global warming. Particular attention is given to biogeochemical changes: How are nutrients, oxygen, and the acidity of the water changing? How much anthropogenic CO₂ does the Mediterranean absorb, and how rapidly is ocean acidification progressing?
For the first time, the expanded international measurement program Bio-GO-SHIP is being integrated. Using new sensors and sampling techniques, the scientists also record biological variables that have so far rarely been measured systematically—such as dissolved organic carbon.
The expedition follows an almost continuous east–west transect across the Mediterranean Sea—from west of the Strait of Gibraltar to south of Cyprus. Around 88 CTD stations are planned along this route. At each station, researchers measure water properties from the surface down to the seafloor. Taken together, these profiles provide a high-resolution, comprehensive picture of the water masses.
Physical, chemical, and biological parameters are recorded, including temperature, salinity, currents, oxygen, nutrients, and various forms of carbon. At selected stations in all major sub-basins, additional samples are collected to investigate new tracers that have so far been used only rarely. In addition, the teams deploy twelve Argo floats and drifters, and test new in situ sensors for nutrients and particles. (KI translated)