-  We know that the scientists are coming, so now we turn our attention to other target groups, says Dr. Orheim. - We can still accommodate more scientists, and we urge everybody involved in polar research to take this opportunity, but the science that is going to be presented is also highly relevant to public administration and policy makers, says the conference chair. He predicts more interest from society as the event draws nearer.

In number of participants Norway is, as the host country, on top of list, closely followed by USA and Canada. But there is a large turnout from a number of other countries - and more than 50 nations are already represented. Amongst the participants are 500 early career polar scientists and 100 teachers and educators.

He is not willing to guess a total turnout: - Months back the number of scientific contribution told us that is going to be the largest gathering of polar scientist ever. Now the number of registered participants confirms this.

- There are some uncertainties involved in the planning of a one-of-a-kind science conference. Organising a multidisciplinary event adds further to the uncertainties. It is easier to predict the turnout when a single discipline meets on a regular basis. 

Dr. Orheim thinks that the great interest for this conference proves that the International Polar Year has managed to build cross-boarder communities. - Many seem to be excited by this opportunity to share their science with fellow polar scientists from other disciplines. It is attractive to meet face-to-face when you have cooperated within the same international project and compare findings. The conference will be a celebration of the outcomes of these joint endeavours.

Many consortiums and organisations are combining conference participation with business meetings. Dr. Orheim makes it clear that the secretariat will do their utmost to accommodate further requests for such meetings.