Rotation of annual expeditions begins at Vernadsky Research Base

According to Ukrinform, the National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine reported this on Facebook.

Late last night Kyiv time, the team of the 31st Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition arrived on Galindez Island, where the station is located. They are set to replace colleagues from the 30th expedition, who have spent the past year carrying out research and ensuring the base's operations.

This time, the icebreaker Noosfera delivered the polar researchers very quickly: the entire journey from the Chilean port of Punta Arenas to Vernadsky took three-and-a-half days. According to the center, this was made possible both by favorable weather and the extensive experience of the vessel's captain, Pavlo Panasiuk, who is now in his fifth Antarctic season.

"Drake Lake. Almost no waves. Too calm," expedition members joked while describing their voyage across the world's roughest strait, the Drake Passage. They also shared their impressions of the first Antarctic landscapes and wildlife they encountered.

Along the way, they spotted whales, penguins, cormorants, petrels, and even Commerson's dolphin, recognizable by its black head and white throat and body.

The new expedition team had been eagerly awaited at the station by members of the 30th expedition and participants of the seasonal expedition.

Over the coming days, the unloading of the icebreaker will continue. The polar researchers must transport 50 tonnes of cargo to shore, supplies needed for the next year of overwintering. Because of the seabed terrain, the Noosfera cannot approach the station's pier, so all cargo will be delivered by motorboats.

Scientists and specialists from the 30th expedition will also hand over responsibilities to the team of the 31st expedition.

The 31st Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition is being led for the first time in Ukraine's history by a woman – meteorologist Anzhelika Hanchuk.

Photo credit: National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine