On 30 April 1857, the Austrian navy set sail on its first circumnavigation of the globe as part of the Novara Expedition. This pioneering voyage inspired the scientific community of the time and led to important discoveries, for example on Saint Paul's Island, the Nicobar Islands and in New Zealand. The collected botanical, zoological and ethnological exhibits enriched numerous museums and laid the foundation for the Natural History Museum Vienna. This case study highlights the remarkable achievements and lasting legacy of the Novara Expedition.