Imagine the vast, inky expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, where sunlight barely penetrates, and the pressure is crushing. Now, picture a Maltese scientist, Dr. Miriam Borg, leading an expedition into this remote, unexplored abyss. This is not a scene from a Hollywood blockbuster, but a real-life mission set to unravel the mysteries of our planet’s last great frontier.

Dr. Miriam Borg, a marine biologist from the University of Malta, is no stranger to the deep. With over a decade of experience studying the Mediterranean’s hidden depths, she’s now turning her gaze towards the Atlantic. “The Mediterranean is like our backyard,” she says, “but the Atlantic is the vast, unexplored ocean beyond our doorstep. I’m thrilled to be leading this expedition.”

Based at the University’s Department of Biology, Miriam’s work has taken her from the bustling streets of Msida, where the university is located, to the quiet, unassuming shores of Malta’s beaches. Here, she prepares for her most ambitious journey yet, a 50-day expedition aboard the R/V Atlantic Explorer.

The Atlantic Ocean, the world’s second-largest ocean, hides more than 90% of its secrets beneath the waves. Miriam and her team will be exploring the Porcupine Abyssal Plain, a remote part of the Atlantic located southwest of Ireland. This vast plain, larger than the island of Malta itself, is one of the deepest and most unexplored regions on Earth.

The expedition, part of the international Ocean Exploration Trust, aims to collect data on the plain’s geological features, marine life, and chemical processes. “We’re essentially mapping the unknown,” Miriam explains. “Every dive could reveal something entirely new.”

Malta, an archipelago with a rich maritime history, is no stranger to ocean exploration. From the ancient Phoenicians to modern-day researchers, our islands have always been a gateway to the deep. Miriam’s expedition is a testament to this heritage, putting Malta at the forefront of global ocean exploration.

Backed by the University of Malta and supported by local businesses, Miriam’s work is a beacon of Malta’s commitment to scientific research. “Malta might be small,” she says, “but our impact on ocean exploration is anything but. We’re punching well above our weight.”

As Miriam prepares to set sail, she reflects on the importance of her mission. “The ocean is the lifeblood of our planet. Yet, we know more about the surface of the Moon than we do about the depths of our own oceans. This expedition is a step towards changing that.”

While Miriam and her team will be thousands of meters beneath the waves, you can follow their journey from the comfort of your home. The Ocean Exploration Trust will be live-streaming the expedition, offering a rare glimpse into the world’s deepest trenches. Keep an eye on Hot Malta for updates and exclusive interviews with Dr. Miriam Borg.

As Miriam prepares to dive into the abyss, she leaves us with these words: “The ocean is not just out there, it’s in here too,” she says, pointing to her heart. “It’s part of who we are, and it’s our responsibility to protect it. This expedition is just the beginning.”