Baron Eduard Toll led a Russian expedition aboard the exploration ship Zarya, departing from Saint Petersburg for the uncharted territories of the Arctic. His mission was primarily scientific, focusing on cartographic surveys and the collection of natural history specimens. The expedition was part of Russia's broader interest in expanding its knowledge and influence in the Arctic, an area seen as pivotal due to its potential resources and strategic significance. Toll, an experienced traveler and scientist, was well-prepared for this daunting journey into the icy realms.

As Zarya navigated the treacherous seas, the crew faced extreme weather conditions and formidable ice pack challenges, typical of Arctic voyages. The Russian Polar Expedition aimed to establish new land claims and gather data that would culminate in advancements in the fields of geography and natural science. Baron Toll and his team employed a multidisciplinary approach that included geology, meteorology, and biology in their investigations, reflecting the age’s spirit of scientific inquiry and imperial ambition.

Despite the preparation, the expedition encountered severe challenges that led to its disappearance. Communications ceased, and no sign of the Zarya or its crew was ever found, fueling speculation about what might have occurred. The expedition's fate became a source of intrigue and legend, prompting future exploratory missions aiming at the haunting mystery of Toll's journey, and underlining the harsh realities faced by explorers of that time.