Scientists believe a thin layer of soot that's mostly invisible is causing the Arctic to absorb more heat.
They want to find out if that's the main reason for the recent rapid warming of the area, which could have a long-term impact on the world's climate.
The research team includes scientists from Norway, Russia, Germany, Italy, and China.
Members are working from Norwegian islands inside the Arctic Circle, about halfway between Norway and the North Pole.
The researchers will track carbon movement and deposits.
They'll also collect snow samples and send up balloons to study atmospheric chemistry.
U.S. scientists are also taking part in the research.
