An international search and rescue operation is underway in Antarctica after a scientific diver went missing during an under-ice dive. The incident occurred on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, in the Adélie Land region.
According to the French polar institute Institut Paul-Émile Victor (IPEV), the diver disappeared during a routine scientific operation near the Dumont-d’Urville Station. The dive was reportedly carried out to service or inspect scientific measuring instruments beneath the sea ice.
Search operations were initiated immediately after the diver failed to return. IPEV stated that established safety and emergency protocols for ice diving were activated. No details have been released regarding the exact dive site, the depth of the operation, or the prevailing environmental conditions.
Due to the extreme conditions in Antarctica, the search is logistically challenging. In addition to the French team, other national Antarctic programs have been asked to provide assistance. The Australian Antarctic Division, in particular, confirmed that it is assessing possible support measures upon request and is prepared to assist within the limits of its available resources.
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the missing diver. They have also declined to comment on whether specialised technical equipment such as underwater vehicles, sonar systems, or extended under-ice search grids are being used. IPEV announced that a comprehensive investigation into the incident will be conducted once the acute search and rescue phase has concluded.
Marcel Schütz, PolarJournal