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Cover Story

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An Arctic Passage

Two German cargo ships have sailed across the Northeast Passage in the Arctic. It is the first time commercial ships have traveled this route. It is usually impassable, even in summer, because of packed ice. But melting ice caps are making it easier for ships to navigate the Arctic.

The ships left South Korea in July and arrived in Siberia, Russia, this month. They are on the final leg of a trip to the Netherlands.

Scientists say global warming is responsible for the Arctic thaw, which is causing many frozen channels to open. If warming continues, the opening of the Northeast Passage may become "more frequent," says climate expert Mark Serreze.

Part of the Arctic sea ice melts each summer before refreezing in the winter. Recent satellite images show the ice is shrinking more than ever. That is bad news for species, like polar bears, that rely on the sea ice for survival.

Shippers have dreamed of a northern shortcut. Right now, ships going from Asia to Europe take a southern route through the Suez Canal, in Egypt. A northern route would shorten the trip, saving time, fuel and money.

Next: Pride of the Yanks