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Leaderboard Sunsail 2026 Jan

MODX 70: A zero CO2 emission platform for science at sea

by MODX Catamarans 14 Nov 2025 16:43 GMT
Greece Mission 2025 © MODX Catamarans

After 40 days of navigation in the heart of the Aegean Sea, the MODX 70 #01 has completed its mission alongside Monaco Explorations, contributing to a major programme combining scientific research, environmental diplomacy and public engagement.

Science on board

Throughout the mission, the MODX 70 #01 hosted several research projects, including:

  • MAR4PAST: assessing the state of brown algal forests over 15 years in Med sea
  • EXOFISH-MED: monitoring invasive species arriving via the Suez Canal
  • Plancto-Med: mapping plankton biodiversity as an indicator of ecosystem health
  • Sailing Box: testing accessible ocean sensors for participatory science
  • BGC-Argo: deploying autonomous floats to collect deep-sea chemical and physical data, microplastic sampling and participatory bathymetry campaigns

The MODX 70 #01 catamaran enabled researchers to conduct operations at sea without external logistics, a concrete example of how innovation can serve marine science.

H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco on board the MODX 70

During the stopover in Alonissos, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco boarded and sailed aboard the MODX 70 #01, taking part in a navigation sequence with the crew before meeting the scientific teams, local authorities and environmental actors.

This moment reinforced the diplomatic dimension of the mission, demonstrating how field science, political cooperation and ocean protection can move forward together.

The MODX 70 in action

As an energy-autonomous, 100% electric vessel equipped with automated Aeroforce® wings, the MODX 70 #01 demonstrated its ability to operate as a zero CO2 emission mobile research platform.

Silent propulsion, full autonomy and modular onboard workspace made the catamaran a strategic asset for scientific teams working directly at sea.

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