Gemstar Manufacturing sponsors groundbreaking Arctic Circle expedition combining record-breaking adventure and vital scientific research
The Outer Edge Polar Challenge (OEPC), backed by sponsor Gemstar Manufacturing, will see expedition founder Charles Werb and the Outer Edge Polar Challenge team attempt to set three Guinness World Records: the fastest 100m by a wind-powered vessel, the longest distance covered in 24 hours by a wind-powered vessel, and the longest continuous adventure livestream on YouTube.
Traveling in Svalbard, the Arctic Circle, under extreme polar conditions, the team will rely solely on wind and solar energy to power their expedition, blending sustainability with science and speed.
In addition to their goal to set records for polar overland travel and snowsailing speed, the team will also contribute to vital scientific research. Equipped with a Ground Probe Radar mounted on the snowsailer, the team will validate satellite data on Arctic ice sheets, providing critical ground-truthing measurements that help scientists understand changing global sea levels.
“I want to show that exploration and sustainability can coexist. By harnessing only wind and solar power, we’ll gather real-time environmental and performance data in one of the harshest climates on Earth. But more than the data, it’s what this challenge represents—innovation, respect for nature, and human curiosity that can power a better future,” states Werb.
During their adventure, Werb and the OEPC team will connect with educators and students around the world via live data and design challenges. In partnership with Tinkercad and Arduino, students will be encouraged to design and build wind or solar-powered equipment and shelters for remote expeditions. Students are also invited to track the team’s live position throughout their record attempt and examine data on weather conditions, ice thickness, and more.
Further expedition details, including logistics and field operations, will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Gemstar Manufacturing Backs the Initiative
Known for their rugged protective cases, Gemstar Manufacturing is equipping the team with two Stronghold® 5935 cases to keep their gear and scientific instruments safe in the Arctic Circle’s extreme conditions. Part of Gemstar’s Stronghold line of rotationally molded, double-walled, airtight, and watertight containers, the 5935 model combines size, strength, and functionality for maximum durability.
“We’re proud to support the Outer Edge Polar Challenge and the groundbreaking work Charles and the OEPC team are undertaking,” said Gemstar President Mark Hedin. “Their mission embodies the same spirit of innovation and resilience that drives us at Gemstar, and we’re honored to help protect the equipment that makes their important research possible.”
About the Outer Edge Polar Challenge
The Outer Edge Polar Challenge is a pioneering Arctic Circle expedition that combines cutting-edge climate research with record-breaking adventure. Led by explorers Charles Werb and the Outer Edger Polar Challenge team, the mission seeks to demonstrate sustainable exploration while providing valuable scientific data on Arctic Circle ice sheets. Learn more at https://outeredgepolarchallenge.com/.
About Gemstar Manufacturing
Gemstar Manufacturing has been an engineering-based solutions provider of hard cases and custom OEM parts for 60 years. The company is a family-owned business supported internally by long-term employees. The firm’s history is rooted in custom manufacturing and the dedication of a customer-centric organization. Gemstar’s mission is “to test the limits of plastic manufacturing and exceed the expectations of customers.” Gemstar’s full-service manufacturing capabilities include industry-leading, vertically integrated manufacturing processes, a fully staffed engineering team, in-house tooling and testing, five-axis routing, and full-service finishing. Learn more at gemstarmfg.com
Media Contact
Karly Anderson
Gemstar Manufacturing | Associate Marketing Manager
218.590.7553
