Welcome to our fourth Postcard from Rothera Research Station, giving you an update on the latest progress as we modernise our largest station in Antarctica.
Modernisation progress
The season is now in full swing as modernisation of Rothera Research Station continues at pace. More people have arrived and the station has been a hive of activity during this busy month.
A noticeable point of progress is exterior work on the Discovery Building, our new science and operations facility, as the new wind deflector takes shape. Other external works are progressing well including the digging of drainage works for the new Sewage Treatment Plant, a new access road and cladding (flashings) around the base of the new operations tower.
Internal works continue with partitioning in the building's stairway, lift and plant rooms. Fireproofing (compartmentation) work is ongoing in the offices and plant rooms. The painters and decorators have been busy working on the medical ward and gym areas of the new facility. The education and training centre, open plan office and oil tank rooms are now installed and completed with the plant room to follow next month.
Did you know?
The two-storey 4,500m2 Discovery Building has an aerodynamic design. The building uses a wind deflector to reduce snow build-up around it by speeding up air flow down one side.
The teams have been busy with the assembly, cladding and fitting of the wind deflector. Sections of the wind deflector are assembled separately before being hoisted onto the roof.
Health and wellbeing
During any busy season of construction, it's important to factor in time for recreation and Antarctica provides the perfect opportunity for snowboarding and skiing. The team members need to keep fit and healthy and in their spare time make the most of the outdoors whilst living and working in this special environment.
Station life is busy with many activities planned such as science talks, boat trips, ice climbing, language lessons and more. Our brilliant chefs have been busy providing our teams with a gourmet hot chocolate session by melting down chocolate bars into milk - just what you need after a busy day living and working in Antarctica!
Now that we are in 2025, all hands are on deck to ensure that we'll be ready for the big moment when the new building is handed over to the British Antarctic Survey in May.
The Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) is part of the UK Government's long-term investment in the Polar Regions. The programme is delivered in partnership with construction partners BAM, Ramboll, Sweco and Hugh Broughton Architects.
We are immensely proud of the Rothera Runway Resurfacing Lighting team as the Rothera Runway Resurfacing and Lighting Project won a national award in October 2024.
