This expedition was a scientific field project focused on botany, ecology, geology, and glaciology in Iceland’s central highlands. Conducted from late July to early September, the expedition established its base at Landmannahellir, a site chosen for its accessible vegetation, varied geology, and proximity to lakes, volcanic formations, and potential glaciological study areas. The team, composed of four members from the Imperial College Botany Department plus two supporting scientists, received funding and logistical support from the Royal Society, the Imperial College Exploration Board, and Icelandic collaborators.
The primary botanical objectives included collecting higher plants, mosses, and lichens for major herbaria and conducting quantitative ecological studies on plant community structure, ageing processes in vegetatively propagated species, and the influence of microtopography. Over 1,500 hours of fieldwork were completed, producing extensive pressed specimens and substantial lichen collections for future taxonomic and ecological analysis. A major study focused on Cerastium species, using seed morphology, leaf/bract ratios, and statistical measurements to clarify species boundaries and hybrid patterns.
The expedition also attempted a glaciological survey on the nearby Torfajökull ice cap, but difficult lava terrain, unstable snowfields, and hazardous river crossings forced the abandonment of this plan after reconnaissance confirmed the ice cap’s unsuitability for long‑term measurement. Geological observations documented widespread palagonite tuffs, rhyolite complexes, obsidian flows, post‑glacial lava fields, and volcanic crater belts surrounding the base area.
Daily life at camp involved routine scientific work, bouts of severe weather, and recreational hiking and climbing in a stark volcanic landscape. Equipment and food performed reliably, and the expedition reported excellent health and strong morale. Overall, the project was considered a scientific success, generating high‑quality botanical collections, ecological datasets, and recommendations for future research in the region.