Ms. Nakao, an observation technician at MOL Maritex, joined the 66th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition, taking on the severe conditions of the Southern Ocean. Driven by a long-held dream of “working aboard a ship,” inspired by her university experiences, she finally reached the icy waters of Antarctica. Her journey involved operating observation instruments, working in extreme environments, and offering a unique technical perspective in support of scientific researchers. Her next destination: the Arctic. We delve into Ms. Nakao’s past and future as she continues to contribute to global-scale observation efforts.
--- Pursuing a Career at Sea: What Sparked the Journey?
Ms. Nakao
I’ve always loved marine life—with a particular interest in sharks. That passion led me to enroll in the School of Fisheries Sciences at Hokkaido University, where a renowned professor who specialized in shark research worked. During my time there, I had the opportunity to board a training vessel and also worked part-time on a research vessel operated by the Fisheries Resources Institute. Supporting the researchers onboard was incredibly rewarding, and that experience sparked my desire to pursue a career at sea.
After graduation, I joined a shipbuilding company and worked in the construction process management for container vessels. However, my longing to work onboard only grew stronger, and I even considered enrolling in a Marine Technical College to make that dream a reality. That’s when I discovered MOL Maritex (formerly MOL Marine & Engineering). The opportunity to serve as an observation technician aboard research vessels—supporting scientists and operating observation instruments—was exactly what I had been looking for.
For an overview of MOL Maritex, please refer to the latter part of this blog.
--- What Does a Marine Observation Technician Do?
Ms. Nakao
Currently, I serve as a marine observation technician aboard the academic research vessel Hakuho Maru, operated by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC). My role involves operating and maintaining onboard observation equipment. I mainly handle systems such as multibeam sonar and acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP), which emit sound waves from transducers attached to the bottom of the vessel hull to collect data on seafloor topography and ocean currents. I also manage a shipboard gravimeter used to measure relative gravity values.
MOL Maritex provides operational and observational support for the Hakuho Maru, including berth arrangements, procurement of provisions and spare parts, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions onboard. During scheduled inspections, I also serve as a technical supervisor at the shipyard, overseeing the vessel’s condition and ensuring that necessary maintenance and repairs are properly executed.
The academic research vessel Hakuho Maru (featured on the MOL Maritex website, provided by JAMSTEC)
My role goes beyond simply operating instruments. I support researchers in acquiring accurate and reliable data tailored to their scientific objectives. Since the research topics vary widely, I’m constantly learning and expanding my knowledge as I work.
--- How Did You Come to Join the Antarctic Research Expedition?
Ms. Nakao
In 2023, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines was selected as the future operator of the Arctic research vessel Mirai II, scheduled for completion in 2026. Ahead of its launch, the company recognized the need to train observation technicians with firsthand experience in polar observation. With that in mind, when I first joined the company, my supervisor asked me, “If you had the chance to go to Antarctica, would you take it?” I immediately replied, “Absolutely!” I’ve always been fascinated by Antarctica, inspired by films like The Chef of South Polar and the anime A Place Further Than the Universe. It’s a place I’ve dreamed of visiting at least once in my life.
I believe I was chosen because of my experience with long-term voyages aboard the Hakuho Maru, and my hands-on knowledge of operating observation equipment. I developed solid communication skills through collaboration with researchers. Thanks to my supervisor’s recommendation and following coordination with the National Institute of Polar Research, I was honored to be selected as a member of the 66th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition.
--- What Kind of Observations Did You Conduct in Antarctica?
Ms. Nakao
The objective of this Antarctic expedition was structured around three subthemes under the main theme of the Japanese Antarctic Research Project Phase X Six-Year Plan:
“Inferring the future global environment system by investigating the past and present of Antarctica”
Subtheme 1: Investigating Antarctic ice sheet and global environmental changes through paleo-environmental research centered on the oldest ice core drilling — This involved deep ice sheet drilling to retrieve some of the oldest ice cores ever collected.
Subtheme 2: Exploring the melting mechanism of the East Antarctic ice sheet and changes in the biogeochemical cycles through integrated research and observation of the ice sheet – sea ice – ocean system — This included intensive oceanographic observations off the coast of the Totten Glacier.
Subtheme 3: Exploring changes in atmospheric circulation and the influence of space based on observations using the large-scale atmospheric radar — This focused on continued multi-faceted atmospheric observations and international collaborative research centered around the large-scale atmospheric radar at Syowa Station.
To enable intensive oceanographic observations off the coast of the Totten Glacier under Subtheme 2, the 66th expedition was structured into two round trips for the first time in its history. I joined the observation team on the Japanese icebreaker Shirase for its second-round trip from late February to early April 2025.
Totten Glacier, located in East Antarctica, is one of the largest glaciers in the region and has been accelerated melting in recent years. One of the suspected causes is the inflow of warm water from the deep ocean basin onto the continental shelf.
I was mainly involved in CTD-RMS observations off the coast of the Totten Glacier. CTD stands for Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth—an instrument equipped with sensors that measure salinity, water temperature, and pressure (depth). We lowered the instruments into the ocean to observe the vertical distribution of temperature and salinity. We also collected water samples at various depths.
(Photo above)The Japanese icebreaker Shirase (MOL Maritex website)
Where does the warm water capable of melting the glacier originate, and how does it reach and melt the sub shelf? To shed light on the inflow pathways and seasonal variations in the volume of warm water entering the region, we conducted a comprehensive set of observations. In addition to CTD-RMS observations, our efforts included mooring and drifting observations, under-ice observations using the autonomous underwater vehicle, various shipboard atmospheric observations, and cultivation experiments.
Working in Antarctic waters is anything but straightforward. Sea ice on the surface can cause winch wires to snap if they touch, risking loss of equipment. Timing, angles, and reading the movement of the ice—all of it required constant attention and precision.
(Top right photo）The CTD-RMS system
(Right) When pack ice accumulates at the stern and prevents access to open water for deploying the CTD or vertical plankton net, the propellers are rotated side to side to push away ice sheets and secure a water surface.
--- What Was It Like Working in the Harsh Antarctic Environment? Any Moments That Left a Strong Impression?
Ms. Nakao
First of all, the cold was on a completely different level. The outside temperature was minus 19 degrees Celsius. Even while wearing thick gloves designed for polar conditions, the moment I touched seawater for sampling, I felt a sharp pain in my fingertips—as if they were freezing instantly. I felt as if my blood vessels were freezing.
(Right) Water collection from niskin water samplers
Still, the Antarctic Ocean offered beauty and wonder that far outweighed the severity. When I saw an iceberg for the first time, I truly felt, “I’m in a place that’s nothing like any ordinary ocean.” Penguins, seals, and whales swam around the vessel as part of everyday life. At first, I was thrilled every time I spotted them. But as the days went by, I got so used to it that seeing a penguin became just another part of the routine — “Oh, there’s another one.” That’s how overwhelming and extraordinary the Antarctic environment really is.
--- What Was Daily Life Like During the Expedition?
Ms. Nakao
Our days were well-organized. I usually woke up around 6 a.m., spent the morning and afternoon conducting observation work, and had free time in the evenings. Every day at 6 p.m., we held a general meeting to share updates from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces (MSDF) and review the observation plans for the following day. At 7 p.m., we all participated in cleaning the shared spaces — bathrooms and hallways were divided among the team members. While bedtime was flexible, the ship would usually quiet down around 11 p.m.
Time for recreation and social interaction was also valued. We participate in entertainment tournaments with the MSDF-Members and fellow expedition members. These included Mario Kart on Nintendo Switch, shogi, Othello and Darts. Although I didn’t get to participate in all of them, seasonal events such as Christmas, New Year’s rice cake pounding, shimenawa (a sacred festoon) crafting, and Valentine’s Day celebrations were also held. One particularly memorable event was Hinamatsuri (Japanese Girls’ Day), when I marched through the ship handing out cookies Mess Management Specialists of MSDF and female members had baked together. These joyful moments were essential in fostering communication and connection among team members during the long voyage.
The food was excellent, and special menus were served on specific days. For example, steak was served on days ending in 9, noodles on same-digit days like the 11th and 22nd, hamburgers for lunch on the 18th, and curry every Friday. Mess Management Specialists of MSDF cook a variety of dishes for every meal.
We were able to connect to the internet via Starlink ( low-Earth orbit satellite network). I was even able to check my company email—which, admittedly, snapped me back to reality for a moment! But receiving emails in Antarctica was a rare and intriguing experience.
--- How Do You Hope to Apply This Antarctic Experience in the Future?
Ms. Nakao
The most valuable thing was gaining firsthand knowledge of how to conduct observations in extreme polar environments—along with insights into safety management and collaboration with researchers. These experiences will be incredibly useful aboard the Arctic research vessel Mirai II, which is scheduled to launch in 2026. I believe that by sharing what I’ve learned—such as how to ship steering and hold position in icy waters, and how to handle observation instruments — we can raise the overall quality of future observation missions.
Another major highlight was witnessing the passion of the researchers. Only a few people get the chance to conduct observations in Antarctica, and every researcher approached their work with a sense of urgency, determined not to miss a single moment. I was deeply moved by their dedication. As an observation technician, I aspire to support and uphold such a level of commitment. That’s why I’m determined to continue improving my technical skills.
Following my Antarctic experience, my next goal is the Arctic. Someday, I hope to become an observation technician who understands all of the world’s oceans—and contributes towards connecting them.
MOL Maritex Co., Ltd. was established on 1 April, 2025, following the integration of three MOL Group companies: MOL Marine & Engineering Co., Ltd., MOL Ocean Expert Co., Ltd., and MOL Ship Tech Inc. This newly formed entity brings together a wealth of expertise in maritime technology, positioning itself as a specialized group of professionals dedicated to advancements in the industry. The name “Maritex” reflects the fusion of Marine and Technology, while also embodying the pride and ambition of Experts committed to shaping the future. The “X” in Maritex symbolizes both the synergy of the three companies and the spirit of exploration into the unknown.
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