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Antarctica is key to understanding our world because it is so deeply interconnected with the Earth’s climate and oceans. Geological sampling on this frozen continent provides insight into climate changes over the past million years, allowing scientists to study global warming in a historical context.
Russia has been at the forefront of Antarctic exploration for almost two centuries. Since the First Russian Antarctic Expedition in 1820, led by F. F. Bellingshausen and M.P. Lazarev, its scientists have made significant contributions to the investigation and especially the mapping of Antarctica. From that time on, extensive research has been carried out, first by several Soviet and then Russian institutions, and the country now maintains five permanent southern polar stations.
The trouble is that, despite advances in modern transport, the only reliable means of reaching the world’s southernmost continent is by sea. The diesel-electric scientific research vessel, “Academic Fyodorov” was almost made for the job and this time, Russia’s polar research fleet flagship is on a mission to visit two year-round Antarctic stations, “Progress” and “Novolazarevskaya”.
“Fyodorov”, the only scientific ship able to reach Antarctica without an ice-breaker convoy, has been through thick and thin over the years and so has its crew! The most established member is 86-year-old, Arnold Budretsky, a polar exploration pioneer. There was nothing but ice and stone before he and his fellow explorers first landed on that frozen desert. Arnold himself has taken charge of opening 10 Antarctic stations, and has an impressive reserve of knowledge and experience to pass on to the next generation of explorers.
Antarctica is notorious for its unpredictable weather and harsh climate and at sea, the explorers have only themselves to rely on, there are no other vessels for hundreds of miles and nothing but icebergs for company. Just getting to Antarctica takes 6 months, a challenge on its own.
There is much for newcomers to learn before settling in as a real part of this small crew: managing food storage for example, and a curious way to keep eggs fresh! People from all walks of life are eager to embark on this voyage to experience the difficulties that research station life entails, which include 24-hour shifts.
The hardship makes Antarctica the ultimate survival test. For many though, the severe but beautiful environment becomes almost addictive, so much so that for many, it feels like home.
The diesel-electric ice ship Akademik Fyodorov travels to Antarctica, where two of Russia's research stations will receive enough supplies to last them until next summer as winter quickly approaches.
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