The Design and Servicability of Antarctic Stations

Abstract

Stations in Antarctica must fulfil the basic aims of providing protection from the harsh climate and a safe and comfortable environment for staff. Faur stations have been selected, from the 39 operating during the winter of 1986, and analysed for the way they match the various constraints to construction in Antarctica. In the harsh Antarctic climate, stations and facilities require regular servicing and maintenance and the effect of this on design is considered. The analysis demonstrates that there has been a general improvement in design since the the first permanent stations were established but the standard of accommodation lags a long way behind. Regulation of Antarctic activities is limited to recomendations from the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) and the Antarctic Treaty, and these organisations should attend to the siting of stations and the standard of facilities. The SCAR should stimulate further international cooperation between designers and promote studies of designs suitable for construction on ice. Designers should ensure that they remain up-to-date with technological developments applicable to polar construction