US geologists at Rothera Base in Antarctica celebrated President Barack Obama's inauguration and expressed optimism for a stronger focus on science under his administration. David Barbeau, assistant professor of geology at the University of South Carolina, mentioned the excitement felt at the research station and the belief that science will be a priority. He also highlighted Obama's pledge to increase basic research funding, which was seen as inspiring. Amanda Savrda, a graduate student working with Barbeau, echoed this sentiment and expressed hope for a future that values and supports science. "It appears to be a positive sign for both my future and the future of many individuals in the field of science," she expressed. Barbeau and Savrda are currently attempting to determine the precise timeline of when the ocean formed between Antarctica and South America millions of years ago. Meanwhile, at the Rothera base, other researchers are conducting studies on a wide range of subjects, from ice sheets to starfish, in order to understand how they might be impacted by climate change. Obama has made a commitment to prioritize the battle against global warming. In contrast, former President George W. Bush sparked controversy among scientists and foreign governments in 2001 when he opted out of adopting the Kyoto Protocol, the primary UN initiative aimed at combating climate change. All of the other developed countries support the Kyoto agreement.