A 27-day research expedition in October 2025 aboard the RV Falkor (too) saw scientists exploring the Malvinas Current off the coast of Argentina, deploying drifting buoys to gather crucial oceanic data. Melina M. Martinez, a PhD candidate at the Sea and Atmosphere Research Center (CIMA) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, played a key role in preparing and deploying these buoys.

Martinez's primary responsibility was assembling and deploying the drifting buoys, which are essential tools for understanding ocean currents. "The buoys allow us to see what is really happening in the ocean," Martinez explained. Each buoy contains a battery pack and GPS unit encased in a protective tube secured with polystyrene foam. A drogue, attached to the bottom, provides resistance, ensuring the buoy drifts with the prevailing oceanic current. "Without a drogue, measurements would be chaotic," Martinez noted. The buoys were assembled onboard the vessel due to the fragility of their components. Martinez painted them yellow for increased visibility and meticulously checked all parts, including GPS connections and batteries, before deployment.

The Malvinas Current is a significant ocean current that runs alongside Argentina, influencing regional climate and marine ecosystems. The expedition aimed to gather comprehensive data on the current's behavior, contributing to a better understanding of its role in the global ocean system. The research team included biologists, geologists, and physical oceanographers, representing a multidisciplinary approach to oceanographic research.

The data collected by these buoys is invaluable for validating and improving ocean models, many of which now incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) to predict future ocean conditions. AI algorithms analyze vast datasets from buoys and other sources to identify patterns and trends that would be impossible for humans to discern. These AI-powered models are increasingly used for applications such as weather forecasting, climate change prediction, and optimizing shipping routes.

The use of AI in oceanographic research is rapidly expanding. Recent developments include the use of machine learning to identify and track marine species, predict harmful algal blooms, and detect underwater noise pollution. The implications for society are significant, as these technologies can help us better manage and protect our oceans, ensuring their health and sustainability for future generations.

The research team is currently analyzing the data collected during the expedition. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and shared with the broader scientific community. Future research expeditions are planned to further investigate the Malvinas Current and its impact on the South Atlantic Ocean. Bernarda Cornejo Pinto provided photographs of Martinez's work.