Telling a flat-out truth | Brief letters

Exploration | Noise | Sculpture | Life’s certainties | Boris JohnsonWhy on earth is it good news, in this time when the environment is under attack, to send out a ship to “pound” through – that is, damage – ice (Antarctic expedition to renew search for Shackleton’s ship Endurance, 5 July)? This is of spurious scientific benefit and instead reflects an intrusive curiosity, not exploration. It also models behaviour that others may follow.Dr Cleo Van VelsenLondon