The region of Dome B (or Ridge B) in central East Antarctica is one of the last unexplored parts of the continent and, at the same time, ranks among the most promising places to search for Earth’s oldest ice. In January 2020, a first scientific traverse from Russia’s Vostok Station to the topographical Dome B (or Ridge B) at 71° 07′ 04,80″ South, 84° 19′ 15,6″ East.

The glaciological program included continuous snow-radar profiling and geodetic positioning along the traverse’s route, installation of snow stakes, measurements of snow density, collection of samples for stable water isotope and chemical analyses. A 20.5 meters deep borehole was drilled on the Dome itself, followed by a study of the raised firn core. As a result, it was possible to obtain the first field glacio-climatic data on Dome B.

The first results of the traverse show that the surface mass balance at Dome B (2.28 g cm−2 year−1) is among the lowest in Antarctica. The firn temperature below the layer of annual variations is −58.1 ± 0.2°C. A very low value of heavy water stable isotope content (-58.2‰ for oxygen-18) was discovered at a distance of 170 km from Vostok Station (WAP RUS-13). This work is the first step towards a comprehensive reconnaissance study of the Ridge B area aimed at locating the best site for future deep drilling for the oldest Antarctic ice.

Read more at: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Map-of-the-scientific-traverse-from-Vostok-to-Dome-B-Colours-show-the-bedrock-elevation_fig1_352238152

 

First  traverse  and  Temporary Dome B Camp

To reach Dome B, the first traverse started from Vostok at 2 p.m. local time on 24 January 2020. The caravan consisted of two PistenBully 300 Polar tractors, one balok (a crew box mounted on a sledge) and one fuel tank. Throughout the entire journey the Team performed kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements as well as GPR profiling. Every 5km the traverse made a short stop for glaciological observations, (installation of a snow stake, measurements of upper snow density and collecting snow samples for water stable isotope and chemical analyses.

The scientific traverse to Dome B, was equipped with scientific equipment including a sledge with the snow radar towed behind the traverse, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).  The average speed of the traverse on the move was 9.7 km h-1, meaning that 5km intervals were passed approximately every 31 minutes. Aside from the short stops, the Team also made four longer stops a day for refueling, meals and rest. At such a speed, the traverse arrived at Dome B at 6 p.m. on 26 January.

On arrival at Dome B, firstly the Team set the camp and installed the drilling equipment and organize static GNSS measurements. The next day they completed the drilling of a 20.5m firn core and installed geodetic markers for the precise determination of local flow directions and velocities. The firn temperature was measured after 12h equilibration of the platinum thermometer at the hole’s bottom at 20.5m depth. A snow stratigraphy investigation and snow sampling were carried out in a 2m pit. Finally, a seven-snow-stake farm was set up in the vicinity of the camp. The traverse left Dome B at ∼5 p.m. on 28 January 2020 and arrived back at Vostok Station in the early morning of 30 January 2020.

Thanks to Oleg UA6GG @ DX Trophy, WAP did received the following information  about next RI1ANI  activity by Alexey RN1ON

In the 2025-26 season, Alexey Turkeev, UG1A-RI1ANI, was not at Dome B. They had planned it, but they didn’t meet the deadlines. RI1ANI worked instead  from Novolazarevskaya (WAP RUS-Ø9) and from the Progress–Vostok expedition. This season, they are planning another expedition to Dome B.

 

On October 21, Alexey Turkeev RN1ON will fly from St. Petersburg to Cape Town. Then a flight to Novolazarevskaya (WAP RUS-Ø9) and Progress (WAP RUS-11). The campaign to the East and then to Dome B will then start.. RI1ANI will work the beam trailer vehicle. There are no exact deadlines yet, but Oleg and Alexey will keep us informed. RI1ANI license will be active again from November 21 of this year.

At he light of the information collected about the “Overland Glaciological Temporary Camp Dome B” which identify the site, the news recently received of a planned activity, the QSL already prepared, WAP is going to add “Overland Glaciological Temporary Camp Dome B” on WAP WADA Directory as WAP RUS-NEW.

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As soon as RI1ANI operation will take place a new WAP number will be issued.
TNX Oleg UA6GG and Alexey RN1ON/RI1ANI

New Zealand’s Scott Base  WAP NZL-Ø1(opened 20 January 1957) together with Swan Base (WAP NZL-Ø2) and Worldpack Base (WAP NZL-Ø3) is one of three New Zealand’s Station in Antarctica. The annual seasonal flag ceremony has taken place last oct. 7^th 2026 marking the official start of the 2026/27 summer season. Supported by the New Zealand Defence Force contingent, the ceremony involves swapping the seasonal flags and symbolizes a new chapter as summer operations get underway.

The winter flag is lowered, and the summer flag is raised to signify a new chapter of increased scientific research, busier operations, and additional personnel arriving on the ice

A cherished tradition for the Scott Base community, the ceremony brings people together to recognize those who have served through the previous season and welcome the team arriving for the busy months ahead.

With more people arriving, more science taking place, and the pace of activity increasing across the program, it’s an exciting time of year in Antarctica, contributing to New Zealand’s Antarctic presence, both at Scott Base and behind the scenes.

 

 

While wishing everyone a nice summer season, WAP says:

Once, Scott Base (WAP NZL-Ø1) was active on HF put on the air by Hamradio operators. Since many years now (last contacts are dated  +/- 2002 or so), nobody is giving the WW Hams a chance to work and log Scott Base which has become one of the rarest one in Antarctica. It will be great to get a chance for a contact … a little bit of goodwill would be enough!

 

 

 

Nobel prize in physics goes to Prof. Francis Halzen for South Pole work on neutrinos.

Belgian physicist praised for work on the IceCube detector that observes the ghost-like particles in Antarctica.

The U.S. National Science Foundation congratulates Prof. Francis Halzen on winning the 2026 Nobel Prize in physics for his major contributions to the NSF IceCube Neutrino Observatory and its discoveries of elusive neutrino particles that come to Earth from distant places in the universe. Over more than two decades, NSF invested in the design, construction, and ongoing operations of IceCube, which has enabled greater understanding of astrophysical neutrinos and their origins.

 

When it was first proposed to NSF in the 1990s, IceCube was an ambitious vision for a scientific facility unlike any other. Halzen and other scientists devised a plan to put thousands of digital detectors more than two kilometers deep in the crystal-clear ice of the South Pole, an ideal location to spot neutrinos. Oftentimes called “ghost particles,” neutrinos exist in great quantities but normally pass straight through Earth undetected. Just detecting a single neutrino is a daunting challenge, but IceCube was made to detect many — and determine where they are coming from.

Read more at: https://www.nsf.gov/mps/updates/2026-nobel-prize-physics-awarded-nsf-icecube-neutrino?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

 

Prof Francis Halzen, a Belgian particle physicist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, led work on the IceCube neutrino Observatory, which made the first detection of high-energy extraterrestrial neutrinos in 2013, soon after it was switched on.

Announcing the prize on Tuesday October 6, 2026, the Nobel committee said Halzen won “for decisive contributions to the IceCube neutrino observatory and the discovery of high-energy neutrinos of astrophysical origin”

Pic to the right, show the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station,(WAP USA-36) in Antarctica.
Photo credit to: Martin Wolf/IceCube/NSF

From Antarctic Ice to the Nobel Prize!
Heartiest congratulations to Prof. Francis Halzen on being awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics for the groundbreaking work behind the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole.  A proud moment for the entire polar science community. May this remarkable discovery inspire India to make new frontiers in polar science and exploration.
A first comments came. TNX VU3BPZ Bhagwati Prasad.

David “Dadou” Brunet F4FKT-FT4YM is approaching his 5^th Antarctic Campaign!

We have just received some fresh info from David who is going to head Concordia Station (WAP MNB-Ø3) around October 25^th.
The actual David plans include Little Dome C (WAP MNB-15), then he hopes to visit the Australian drilling base MYIC-DCN Dome C North (Dome Concordia North) the Australia’s deep-ice drilling and field research site at 75° 02′ 31.9″ South, 123° 37′ 52.3″ East. (WAP AUS-NEW).

David also reports that he will be active from mid-November 2026 through the end of January 2027, then spending 5 to 7 days at DDU (WAP FRA-Ø1), followed by the activation of a new site (for which, the authorization is pending).

 

WAP, confident in interpreting the sentiments of the “Antarctic Hunters” community, wishes David the very best for this new mission, hoping it adds to the remarkable experience he has already gained during his four previous Antarctic campaigns and builds upon the excitement FT4YM has delivered through so many QSOs from quite a few remote sites on the White Continent..

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Have a safe trip David, We’ll be looking for you on the air!

Lot of work in QSLing is occupying Denney George, VU2DGR/AT44I after the return to his homeland after a long stay in Antarctica.

Denney did operate as AT44I as part of the 44th ISEA from  Bharati Station (WAP IND-Ø4), the Indian Base at Prydz Bay, Larsemann Hills (69°24’26,80″ South, 76°11’14,70″ East),  where he was in charge of Radio communications.

On his spare time, Denney has dedicated many hours and days to Radio Amateurs from all over the world who wanted to log AT44I; He always tried to give everyone this great opportunity.

The set of QSL cards received ,confirms the enthusiasm with which, VU2DGR-AT44I fulfilled the commitment made to the Antarctic Hunters WW.

Thank you, Denney, mission accomplished, and we might add… in the best possible way!

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QSL could be requested through:
Denney George
Kizhakkemala Kizhakkethil, Kunnam P.O
Mavelikara Alappuzha Kerala 690108, India

 

After the incredible performance of Bhagwati VU3BPZ; the Antarctic Hunters always  remember him  and his various callsign used  in Antarctica with great affection  (VU3BPZ/p, AT1ØBP, VU3BPZ/MM, VU3BPZ/R1 & 8T2BH in 2010-2011-2012-2015 & 2016), this last  operation by Denney  from Antarctica is certainly a new pearl to be proud of.

 

Special Thanks to:
ISEA (Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica)and India’s premier research institute dedicated to the study of the polar regions and the southern oceans., the National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research (NCAOR), recently renamed NCPOR (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research) which, in addition to Scientific activities, always pays particular attention to WW Radio Amateur activities.

The Mawson’s Huts Foundation is excited to announce that the full festival program is now live!

https://www.mawsons-huts.org.au/2026-festival-program/

From 20–23 August, Hobart will once again transform into Australia’s Antarctic gateway with four days of inspiring talks, immersive experiences, family activities, films, exhibitions, live entertainment and unique Antarctic-themed events across the city.

Whether you’re passionate about Antarctic history, science, exploration, wildlife or simply looking for a fantastic day out, there’s something for everyone.

Explore interactive displays, meet Antarctic organizations and discover the latest in polar science, conservation and exploration, step onto the ice through immersive virtual reality experiences presented by the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust and New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust.

Enjoy a unique Antarctic-inspired tasting and storytelling experience at Lark Cellar Door and the Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum, enjoy a full day of free family entertainment, activities and Antarctic fun around the Mawson Place precinct.

Experience Brooke Street Pier’s popular Twilight Market with an Antarctic twist, featuring food, drinks, entertainment and artisan stalls, sail into the Heroic Era aboard Hobart’s iconic tall ship on the River Derwent.

Discover Antarctic-inspired food, drinks and treats at participating venues across Hobart. Make a weekend of it ….

In partnership with the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD), the Mawson’s Huts Foundation (https://www.mawsons-huts.org.au/)  has funded and organized 14 major conservation expeditions to Cape Denison. Teams work in grueling -20°C conditions and ferocious gale-force winds to clear internal ice and repair wood damaged by over a century of extreme blizzards.

TNX Mawson’s Huts Foundation

The Scott Base redevelopment, with the signing of the main construction contract with LT McGuinness Ltd is an exciting step towards creating a modern, resilient Antarctic research station that will support science, operations and New Zealand’s presence in Antarctica for decades to come.

Cabinet approved the reset redevelopment programme Detailed Business Case in May 2026 and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance authorised the project to proceed into delivery earlier in July.

“Our continuous presence and scientific programme in Antarctica are fundamental to New Zealand’s interests. Approval to Deliver and the construction contract marks the successful completion of the reset of a major public infrastructure project. And it begins the next generation in the Scott Base legacy.”  said Antarctica New Zealand chair Leon Grice

The Scott Base redevelopment will deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose Antarctic research station, including new accommodation and communal facilities, upgraded science and operational spaces, and critical infrastructure improvements.

Capacity will increase from the current 5,000m2 to approx. 6,500m2, including a new Base Services Building (over 3,000m2); refurbishment of the Hillary Field Centre (an additional 400m2); replacement of ageing infrastructure (water, wastewater and power); with an enclosed elevated link connecting new and existing facilities.

The redevelopment also includes a major wind farm upgrade and battery storage system, significantly increasing renewable energy generation, resilience and grid stability for both Scott Base  (WAP NZL-Ø1) and neighbouring McMurdo Station (WAP USA-22).

Professor Hendrikx said the redevelopment remained one of New Zealand’s most strategically important investments in science and infrastructure.

“Scott Base underpins New Zealand’s permanent presence in Antarctica, enables world-class science and supports our obligations under the Antarctic Treaty System. This redevelopment ensures New Zealand can continue to undertake internationally significant science from Scott Base while providing modern, resilient facilities capable of supporting Antarctic operations for decades to come.”

Construction will proceed over successive Antarctic summer seasons, reflecting the unique logistics and approximately 100-day annual construction window available on Ross Island. The coming season will see drilling and completion of piles undertaken, along with shipment of materials needed for the 2027/28 season. Practical completion remains scheduled for 2030.

TNX: Antarctica New Zealand

Read more at: https://www.antarcticanz.govt.nz/media/news/contract-signed-for-scott-base-redevelopment?fbclid=IwY2xjawTX6eRwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMG9BRXJEd2FwdmQ4VFl1MWhzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeBQicnLuy2miGfsxJH3Pg5-VBgQTpqC6EhvALqCEhcvCASYsuUQ_S0i1_Xg4_aem_LTyHV9PSApZMJisFZYhpxw

New WAP WACA and WADA Directories are just released and available for Free download .
Both are an incredible tool for Antarctic chasers, a result of over 45 years of Antarctic passion.

Bases, Settlements, Huts, Refuges, “Old” and “New” sites are well divided by Countries to which they belong, and of course, the Multinational Bases are grouped in a dedicated list.

Just click on one of the two pics aside and you will be immediately ridirected on the download page

The Directories contain both the Antarctic Continent and the Peri-and Sub-Antarctic portions of the far South.

WADA Directory includes Research vessels, Icebreakers and Support ships grouped under the Maritime Mobile session.

WAP WACA lists all the Callsigns that have been active since the beginning of the Antarctic era, while WAP-WADA is specifically dedicated to the Bases with related WAP reference, names, location Lat. & Long.

TNX Max IK1GPG & IK1QFM for keeping the hard work running for nearly half a century, available to fans of the White Continent.

Check also the WAP WACA and WAP WADA Awards page, download the forms to apply for your certificate, rules and WW ranking.

Enjoy Antarctica as much as we do!

Heard Island (53°06’ South, 73°31’ East) and McDonald Islands (53°02’ South, 72°36’ East) , mostly shown together, are a Sub-Antarctic islands group located in the Southern Ocean. The nearest land is the French territory of Îles Kerguelen (WAP FRA-Ø4), an archipelago of islands around 450 kilometres to the North-West.

The islands are an Australian External Territory and enjoy World Heritage protection and marine reserve status, managed by the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD).

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Heard Island and McDonald Islands are unoccupied by humans and remain largely undisturbed by human activity. The region’s persistently poor weather, high seas and vast expanses of ocean mean the islands weren’t discovered by Europeans until 1853. The area, is a  Marine Reserve which  covers approximately 380,000 km². The boundaries and zoning were expanded in 2024 and came into effect on 24 January, 2025.

Heard Island is approximately 40 km long and 20 km wide and covers around 368 km². The landscape is dominated by Big Ben, a dynamic and active volcano that is the tallest mountain in Australian territory, excluding Antarctica.

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While Heard Island  (WAP AUS-Ø7) is well known by Hams due to the ANARE Station at Atlas Cove, and the past Ham’s Radio Activities, the McDonald Islands, uninhabited Australian volcanic territory in the Southern Indian Ocean, located at 53°02’ South, 72°36’ East, have never seen any HF Radio operation. It will be hard to think a Ham Expedition could try to activate it, but for now, WAP will allocate McDonald island (and its coastal Shag Rock island) on WAP-WADA Directory as WAP AUS-NEW.

Hereby the just issued WAP Antarctic Bulletin nr.312  and ready to download, Just clik on the pic aside to get the bulletin in pdf format

TNX Max IK1GPG & Betty IK1QFM for their remarkable work.

On july 1st a new release of the WAP-WACA and WAP-WADA Directories with last new entries , will be available to download.

Looks like operators from Antarctica seems to prefere  the more comfortable FT8 or FT4 to the traditional SSB or CW modes… a real shame for the “pure” traditionalists who still prefer the radio in its original meaning with the old Morse code or the more classic SSB!

In any case, Digital or the so-called Human Mode (SSB & CW), a QSO with Antarctica is always something unforgettable!

Enjoy Antarctica as much as we do!

Navarino Island-Chile (WAP CHL-13) is a major scientific hub.

3G9S has been the last Ham radio DX-pedition operating from Navarino Island  (WAP CHL-13) from 10 through 17 Jan. 2026

The primary settlement is Puerto Williams, a small city on the northern coast that serves as the administrative capital of the Chilean Antarctic Province. The island hosts multiple specific scientific operations: Subantarctic Center (Centro Subantártico Cabo de Hornos) this modern facility provides space for global scientific researchers to study Subantarctic biodiversity, climate change, and ecology. It is operated in conjunction with the University of Magallanes and the Omora Ethnobotanical Park.

Puerto Williams acts as the staging ground for researchers and navy personnel traveling to Cape Horn and Chilean Antarctic Bases therefore, to all intents and purposes the Logistical Base for Antarctica & Cape Horn.

 

The primary, physical scientific building on Navarino Island is the Cape Horn Sub-Antarctic Center (known locally as the Centro Subantártico Cabo de Hornos). Located in Puerto Williams, this iconic facility serves as the headquarters for the Cape Horn International Center (CHIC). It is the world’s southernmost climate change research station. Designed by the international firm Ennead Architects, the building’s architecture mimics a “three-canoe” form. This design provides shelter from harsh Sub-Antarctic winds and maximizes solar exposure. The building is split into three integrated pavilions:

Research & Laboratory Pavilion houses biological research labs, specialized equipment, and two residential apartments for visiting global scientists.

Administration & Public Pavilion contains a multi-purpose lecture hall, administrative offices, an exhibition gallery, and a café.

Education Pavilion features classrooms, study spaces, and a library dedicated to sustainable tourism and biocultural conservation. The facility operates as a natural laboratory to track how global climate change affects the Sub-Antarctic ecosystem. It is managed through a collaborative partnership led by the Universidad de Magallanes and several international academic institutions

See more at:  https://ennead.com/work/cape-horn/

 

Alfred-Faure or Port Alfred is a permanent French Scientific Station on Possession Island  of the subantarctic Crozet Archipelago in the South Indian Ocean.

Crozet and Kerguelen Islands are French territory in the Indian Ocean and are part of Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises (TAAF)

There are many islands that are a part of the Crozet Islands such as: Île aux Cochons (Pig Island), Île des Pingouins (Penguin Island), Îlots des Apôtres (Apostle Islets), Grande Île (Big Island), Île de la Possession (Possession Island), Île de I’Est (East Island).  The Crozet Plateau is divided in two island groups, separated by a 2 km deep Indivat Basin.

Eastern island group includes: Ile de la Possession, the largest Crozet Island, and Ile de l’Est (East).

The Western islands include the small stratovolcano of Ile aux Cochons (Hog Islands), and the reefs of Iles des Pingouins (Penguins) and Iles des Apotres (Apostle Islet).  They are 120 km West of the eastern group.

The two largest and oldest islands, Possession and Est are on the eastern portion.  The rest of the islands are on the other side of the Indivat Basin.  The western set of islands appear to be newer, with a major structural feature thought to be a submarine volcano 30 km E of Ile aux Cochons.  The crust in the western portion is quite thick at 16.5 km, thinning to 10 km east of the Basin.

Permanent occupation with a Scientific Station, is dated from 1963.  The 20 small mountainous islands of Crozet are a French territory and are uninhabited except for scientific personnel and penguins.  Home to seals, King Penguins and other birds, Crozet is designated a “National conservation area” by France.

The mostly barren island is subject to low temperatures and long winters. The island climate is mitigated somewhat by maritime influences.  The inland plateaus are barren and rocky. Steep cliffs drop to sealevel on the coasts.

The unglaciated islands were discovered and claimed for France by a French explorer in 1772.  Their abundant population of seals soon drew the interest of sealers, who managed to nearly wipe out seal populations of Crozet and neighboring Kerguelen islands by 1835, after which the French seal trade was replaced by American whalers.  Overfishing in recent years led the French to declare an exclusive economic zone around their islands in this part of the world in 1978.  Today, the French Navy patrols the zone.

The French Polar Institute is in charge of 38 Refuges or isolated sites in Kerguelen (mostly WAP FRA-Ø4 Port Aux Francais and WAP FRA-Ø5 Port Jeanne d’Arc), 3 in Crozet and 2 on Amsterdam Island (WAP FRA-Ø3).

The “Little Chapel” on Crozet Island (officially named Notre Dame des Oiseaux) is a small, cubic wooden church located in front of the permanent station Alfred Faure Research Base (WAP FRA-Ø2) on Possession Island. Built in 1984, it serves as a remote sanctuary for overwintering researchers and features a memorial plaque for lost sailors.

The Southern Aurora Donga (or ‘SAD‘) is a historic accommodation building at the Australian Antarctic Division’s Macquarie Island Research Station (WAP AUS-Ø8).

This “Donga” (temporary, moveable dwelling) provides sleeping quarters for expeditioners in a remote, Sub-Antarctic environment. Known as “The Beach House” or SAD, it was erected in 1958, serving as one of the station’s older accommodation units.

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In 2026, hard work has been done in upgrading expeditioner accommodation at Macquarie Island Research Station as part of the Macquarie Island Station Project, including upgrading bedrooms, re-cladding, and improving amenities at its structure.

The bedrooms and bathrooms have been renovated, and the building has been covered with new fabric, giving the SAD a completely new look and feel. Approximately 24 people live at the station during the winter, supporting scientific monitoring, maintaining vital infrastructure, and caring for the health and well-being of the Team.

These upgrades will help ensure personnel having a more comfortable place to live and work in one of the world’s most remote environments..

Structure itself consists of small, roughly 2×2 meters individual, or shared, sleeping cubicles, and is part of a series of buildings on the station that includes Cumpston Cottage, built in 1996..

 

Thanks and credit to:  Ausantarctic & AAD

 

 

The Ross Island Earth Station (RIES) is located on a hill overlooking the road between McMurdo Station and Scott Base at 77° 50.89′ South, 166° 40.11′ East. It was constructed in 2021-22 at T-Site (Transmitter Site) on the volcanic rock of the Hut Point Peninsula, about 1.5 km North of McMurdo Station and 3 km Northwest of New Zealand’s Scott Base.
McMurdo Station (US) and Scott Base (NZ) are Antarctic research stations, both located on the Hut Point Peninsula.

 

The area was selected specifically because it is an electromagnetically quiet and clean area suitable for sensitive upper atmospheric equipment.

This communication satellite dish replaced the dishes located at Black Island, approximately 20 miles from McMurdo.

Hut Point Peninsula (77°47′South 166°51′East) is a long, narrow peninsula from 2 to 3 nautical miles (3.7 to 5.6 km; 2.3 to 3.5 mi) wide and 15 nautical miles (28 km; 17 mi) long, projecting south-west from the slopes of Mount Erebus on Ross Island, Antarctica.

 

In 2022 the Ross Island Earth Station (RIES) satellite telecommunications center was completed near McMurdo Station, which supports satellite communications for the base.

Completed in April 2022, it serves as a cornerstone of the United States Antarctic Program (USAP) communications infrastructure.

It provides high-speed satellite links via geosynchronous (GEO) orbit, facilitating massive scientific data transfers, operational logistics, and internet services for station personnel.

Scientific Support: The station aids in global weather forecasting and storm tracking by transmitting atmospheric data collected on-site.

To survive Antarctic extremes, the large satellite dish is housed within a protective radome (a spherical weather-resistant enclosure).

Situated on the Hut Point Peninsula of Ross Island, it offers a direct line of sight to satellites that were previously more difficult to access from other locations on the continent.

While Black Island remains operational, the Ross Island Earth Station significantly increases bandwidth and provides a more reliable, direct connection to the global telecommunications grid.

Read more at: https://sam.gov/opp/699aea1766d17df2398adc152253aac3/view

Also: https://www.mcmurdostation.com/2122/antenna.html

Timelapse of the construction at:  https://www.facebook.com/reel/666848134606610

 

Ross Island Earth Station (RIES), at 77° 50.89′ South, 166° 40.11′ East, Hut Point Peninsula, Ross Island, Antarctica, will be add on WAP-WADA Directory as WAP USA-NEW

WAP has chosen the postcards that according to our opinion, best represented the last 2026 edition of the AAW.

Let us congratulate François Berger F8DVD, that since 2005 has never lost a single participation and, since then, joins regularly to the Antarctic Activity Week, always showing up a new design of his QSL.

 

For the 2026 edition, François got a brand new special callsign, well explained on the rear side of his card: TM23AAW (WAP-358) is a special call issued for the 23th Antarctic Activity Week which took place during February 2026. The picture shows the Australian Davis Base. Davis is the most southerly Australian Antarctic Station situated on the Ingrid Christensen Coast of Princess Elizabeth Land. The station is about 20 km from the edge of the continental ice sheet (68°34’S, 77°58’E).

QSL for TM23AAW, via bureau or direct to: François Bergez, 6, rue de la Liberté, 71000 Macon, France.

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The second one is II1SR & II1SR/P (WAP-363) operated by Gabriele Rocchi IK1NEG.

II1SR is a tribute to Renato Cepparo I1SR who 50 years ago, leading a private expedition, built the first Italian research station in Antarctica, naming it after Giacomo Bove, an Italian explorer.

2026 marked the 50th anniversary (1976-2026), and II1SR was the special callsign used during the 23rd edition of the AAW to commemorate him.
23^rd Antarctic Activity Week did overlap the Imperia (Italy) Antarctic Meeting where II1SR/P was active from the Naval Museum, that’s why the /P.
HF contacts have been made using the original Swan 700CX equipment of Renato Cepparo at the time of building the Italian Giacomo Bove Base, therefore the meaning that, this activity takes on, 50 years later, has a unique historical importance.

QSL for II1SR & II1SR/P via bureau or direct to:

Gabriele Rocchi, Via Argine Destro 303/13, 18100 Imperia (IM), Italy

Two days ago, Mehdi F5PFP one of the well known  most contemporary Antarctic enthusiast, posted the announcement of the Facebook page of Polar DX Group:  (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1961114967367742?locale=it_IT) 
Here below the original msg. 
Tickets For Sale: For a 4 weeks Antarctic cruise in early 2027 aboard a durable and accredited sailing boat, with a very experienced skipper and mate; my girlfriend who’s a doctor and myself, that means in total 4 to 5 passengers and 2 crew members. This is not a DX-pedition, it is an Antarctic cruise including radio amateur activities during various stopovers.
ITINERARY:
1) Departure from Puerto Williams, Navarino island, Chile.
2) A stopover on the South Shetland islands if sailing conditions permit to activate some bases.,
3) A navigation along the West Graham Land and neighbouring Antarctic archipelagos according to passengers wishes with radio amateur activities when we stop on various islands, bases and refuges. Except during the crossings of the Drake and Bransfield straits we go ashore almost every day.
4) A possible new stopover on the South Shetland islands, on the way back from Antarctica, if sailing conditions permit.
5) Back to Puerto Williams, Navarino island, Chile.

CONDITIONS:
No need to be an amateur radio operator to join us; being in good physical shape; completely approve the project and its price.

AMATEUR RADIO ACTIVTY:
Mainly QRV after daily navigation and landing from +/- 22:00 utc to +/- 03:00 utc on 20 and 40m. This will be an old-school style and freelance radio amateur activity, so no FT8/digital modes, no sponsor to be free, no score to acheive because i have nothing to prove, just an adventure to live. If this is not not what you want for any reason, please don’t contact me.

IN ATTACHMENT:
A few photos to feel the atmosphere of the Antarctic peninsula (FT5YJ &FT5YK) and 2 videos of Sir Ernst another french sailing boat that sailed on the same zone. The movies mostly show “swiming pool” conditions but they can also be “rock & roll”.
https://youtu.be/zPuUVumIzUQ?si=wxhFGQxvi9EGtDmG
and
https://youtu.be/f_sz_HtY7Ss?si=2-VTOhnbceDRrqPh

TAKE NOTE: Anything may happen until the last minute, like a new pandemic, an accident or some other bad events, that’s why I promise nothing. However, if no serious problem arises before departure, with or without new passenger, we’re going!
Contact: f5pfp@sfr.fr
73 F5PFP

Hanging a WAP Award on the wall of the Ham radio shack is not a gesture of vanity  but it’s the real acknowledgment of years of Ham radio passion: the continuous search of difficult contacts in remote areas of the planet. 
For enthusiasts, for pure DXers, QSOs with Antarctica are undoubtedly the maximum expression of professional skill of an Old Timer!

We are happy to congratulate Augustyn SP6BOW for achieving his goal and thanks to the editorial staff of the Polish Ham Radio Magazine for the publication on its May-June 2026 issue.

Augustyn SP6BOW wrote:
«So, I am now the proud recipient and possessor of your valuable WAP-WADA Award, and this brings me great joy.
I would like to inform you that my award is featured in our Polish Magazine for Radio Amateurs and Radio Friends. I also wrote a comprehensive article about the WAP-WADA award and its detailed regulations. The editors were very pleased with it. I hope it will also be of interest to our colleagues in Poland. I am attaching a photo for you to view.
Best regards and I wish you good health.
73, de Augustyn SP6BOW

Congrats Augustyn,  you did great! TNX from the WAP staff!

The Australian Antarctic Program successfully completed a landmark two-voyage campaign to the remote Heard Island (WAP AUS-Ø7) and McDonald Islands (WAP AUS-NEW) in early 2026, marking the first comprehensive study of the World Heritage-listed territory in 20 years.

The project, utilizing the icebreaker RSV Nuyina, focused on critical climate research, wildlife monitoring, including checks for H5 bird flu, and environmental cleanup.

Scientists monitored glaciers, conducted wildlife assessments on seals and seabirds, and investigated the impact of H5 bird flu on local populations. The teams installed an Automated Weather Station, an autonomous remote environment monitoring system (Arteimus) at Atlas Cove, and a sea level monitoring camera system at Magnet Point, which transmits data via Starlink. The mission included comprehensive marine mapping, environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, and the removal of rubbish from the remote sites. The campaign consisted of two major voyages, with the first in October 2025 and the second in January 2026, supported by a $17.6 million investment in marine science.

The HIMI islands, located roughly (4,000km southwest of Australia, are crucial for studying climate change impacts on pristine, sub-Antarctic ecosystems, including Australia’s only active volcanoes and glaciers. The campaign’s findings will help to inform future management of the surrounding Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI)

Thanks and Credit to: AAD

China operates five research stations in Antarctica:
Great Wall (WAP CHN-Ø1), established on Feb 20, 1985, on Fildes Peninsula, King George Island.
Zhongshan (WAP CHN/Ø2), opened on Feb 26, 1989, in the Larsemann Hills, Prydz Bay.
Kunlun (WAP CHN-NEW), established on Jan 27, 2009, at Dome A (the highest point in Antarctica).
Taishan (WAP CHN-NEW), opened on Feb 8, 2014, located between Zhongshan and Kunlun.
Qinling (WAP CHN-NEW), officially opened on Feb 7, 2024, on Inexpressible Island, Terra Nova Bay in the Ross Sea.

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Three of these stations: Great Wall (WAP CHN-Ø1, Zhongshan (WAP CHN-Ø2), and Qinling (WAP CHN-NEW) are equipped for year-round operations, while Kunlun and Taishan are seasonal Summer Stations.

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These five Stations support year-round and summer-only scientific research, with the newest, Qinling, will now enter on WAP-WADA Directory as CHN-NEW.

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The Antarctic Qinling Station, China’s fifth research station in Antarctica, commenced operations on February 7, 2024. The station is located at 74°56′04″South, 163°42′55″East.

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Qinling Station, the newest of China’s five Antarctic research outposts, is now fully equipped to support overwintering expeditions, following the completion of the main missions of the Country’s 41st Antarctic expedition. See: https://www.cctvplus.com/news/2025040

In March 2025 China announced plans of its intentions to build its sixth Antarctic Station, for summer research, at Cox Point (74°57’South, 136°41’West) in Marie Byrd Land, West Antarctica.

South Georgia big efforts are going on for the announced VPØSG South Georgia 2027 DXpedition.

By now let us enjoying a very fresh envelope stamped and cancelled at King Edward Point, South Georgia, kindly sent by our friend Independent Polar Researcher and Antarctic Ambassador Volker DL8JDX who has been on board the M/S Hamburg, a cruise ship sailing the Antarctic waters.

Even if the exact location where the expedition will set the base camp, has not been yet announced, any of the known rare WAP references of South Georgia are welcome!
So far, down there, we have: Station “BI” Bird Island (WAP GBR-23), King Edward Point (WAP GBR-24), Husvik (WAP GBR-27), Spenceley Glacier Camp (WAP GBR-28) and Grytviken (WAP GBR-29), Leith Harbour Station (WAP GBR-41) plus  other 6 new ones (WAP GBR_NEW): Gothul, Maiviken, Ocean Harbour, Prince Olav Harbour, Rosita Harbour and Stromness Station, so it’s quite possible that VPØSG will operate from one of those listed sites. Let’s see what the future will deserve to the Antarctic hunters!

Here below a 20 min video will tell what‘s in the works.

Of course, VPØSG South Georgia DXpedition 2027 is an ambitious effort to activate one of the most wanted DXCC entities; 14-operator team, the M/V Meredian, and six rotating operators on the island running multiple stations are expected.
TNX Volker DL8JDX

On April 15, 1922, the Quest arrived at Leith Harbour (WAP GBR-41), South Georgia, marking the effective end of the Shackleton–Rowett Expedition after Frank Wild attempted to continue following Sir Ernest Shackleton’s death on January 5. The crew, led by Wild, spent two weeks in South Georgia for repairs and to honor Shackleton, who was buried at Grytviken (WAP GBR-29) on March 5, 1922.

Despite Shackleton’s death, Frank Wild was determined to “carry on,” as he described in his diaries, trying to fulfill the expedition’s objectives. The ship returned to the island to rest, repair, and pay final respects to “The Boss”. While at Leith Harbour (WAP GBR-41) and Stromness (WAP GBR-NEW), the crew, including Leonard Hussey and Frank Worsley, erected a stone cairn with a wooden cross on Hope Point in memory of Shackleton.

The Quest eventually left South Georgia on May 8, 1922, heading back to England, arriving in Plymouth on September 16, 1922.

The Shackleton’s ‘Quest’ Expedition was later viewed as a significant, though truncated, expedition that collected important scientific and geological data in the South Atlantic.

The Antarctic Heritage Trust (https://www.facebook.com/Antarctic.Heritage.Trust) post on this day highlights the emotional end of the expedition and the crew’s dedication to honoring their fallen leader.

In 2014, China established a second inland summer station, Taishan Camp (WAP CHN-NEW), located about halfway along the traverse between Zhongshan and Kunlun Stations. The purpose of this station was both logistical and scientific, with a focus on glaciology, meteorology, and space physics. The following year, 2015, CHINARE (Chinese Antarctic Program) put into service its Snow Eagle 601 Basler aircraft (reengineered around a World War II airframe) and launched an array of three polar observation satellites as part of its CubeSat mission.

Situated on the inland ice sheet at an altitude of 2,621 meters, it lies about 520 km from Zhongshan Station (WAP CHN-Ø2) and 715 km from Kunlun Station (WAP CHN-NEW).

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The Antarctic Taishan Station (aka Taishan Camp) at 73°51′50″South, 76°58′27″East in Princess Elizabeth Land in East Antarctica, is China’s second Antarctic inland Summer Research Station completed on February 8, 2014. by the 30th Chinese Antarctic Research Expedition (CHINARE 30).

After 45 days of hard work, Taishan Station looks like a traditional Chinese lantern. Construction of it began in December 2013. The 28 strong-team braved temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees celsius, snowstorms, and high-altitude conditions to build the station.

It can house as many as 20 people and will be used as a Scientific Research Station during the Antarctic summers, lasting from December to March.

Teams based there, will provide logistical support and study the area’s geology, glaciers, geo-magnetism and atmosphere

A magnitude 6.6 earthquake was recorded Thursday night (Mar. 19^th6,  2026) in the Antarctic region, approximately 998 kilometers from Ushuaia and near Base Presidente Eduardo Frei (WAP CHL-Ø5), in Chilean territory.

The quake occurred around 9:22 p.m., according to monitoring data and the bulletins from various WW Seismological monitoring sources which also reported a slightly higher preliminary magnitude and located the epicenter 173 kilometers northeast of the base.

The event triggered a rapid response from emergency agencies, which assessed potential risks along the coastline. However, the Chilean Navy’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOA) ruled out the possibility of a tsunami, indicating that the necessary conditions for its generation were not present.

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So far, no damage has been reported, nor has it been confirmed whether the earthquake was felt at the Bases located in Antarctica.

Denney George VU2DGR , signing AT44I has been the Communication Officer at Bharati Station (WAP IND-Ø4) from December 8, 2024, through March 2, 2026; a full 44 ISEA Summer + Winter and 45 ISEA Summer, finalizing a real long journey in Antarctica!
We have got a brief contact with Denney while he was stopping by at Maitri Station (WAP IND-Ø3): «My expedition is over and I’m coming back to India. I’m actually near Maitri Station, weather is -7°C at Queen Maud Land. Great experience for me and for the 24 winter Members living and working at Bharati; a unique and positive opportunity.
Unfortunately, no Hams at Bharati nor at Maitri on next Indian Antarctic Campaign and I’m pleased to have giveng many DXers and Antarctic chasers a chance to log IND-Ø4.
On my free time, I was “On air” and today I’m proud to have made contacts with 105 Countries, so now, on the way back home, I can say to have done my best with only 100W and a wire dipole! »

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Denney will be home in India by the first week of April.

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QSL for AT44I have to be requested direct to VU2DGR (No Buro) to:
Denney George
Kizhakkemala Kizhakkethil, Kunnam P.O
Mavelikara Alappuzha KERALA 690108, India

TNX AT44I-VU2DGR

Argus, the icebreaker, is named after the giant in Greek mythology. The ship is maneuverable and a robust and reliable icebreaker.

I/B Argus is on his way back from Bouvet after the great 3YØK expedition where the Team of 15, was active from Cape Fie (WAP NOR-14).
“There were rumors (WAP has been received queries about that info) of possible two Camps on the island but, it has been made clear that there was only one Camp and it was at Cape Fie in the South Eastern side of Bouvet Island.”

Well now the Team is onboard of the Polar Vessel heading South Africa (ETA 21 Febr.) .

Several members of the 3Y0K expedition are QRV aboard signing their own call signs. Yesterday Febr. 17, attentive DX hunters have got a chance to log several of them working CW on 10 mts. with good signals: N4ML/MM, LA7GIA/MM, LB5SH/MM and HAØNAR/MM are in the log.
On Febr. 16, OY1R/MM was also reported active on SSB! There are few days left before they reach their final destination, so don’t miss the opportunity to work a “New Polar Ship” for your WAP score and some others  operators /MM!

ARGUS,  68 mts long, 9 mts wide (IMO:7104752, MMSI:219226000, Call sign: OVZW2) built in 1971, is sailing under the flag of Denmark.

WAP Antarctic Bulletin nr. 311 is online at: https://www.waponline.it/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/WAP-Bull_311.pdf 

Download it … it’s free!

Inside, the latest news from Antarctica, who’s on air, who’ll be on air soon, and active Stations. WAP Antarctic Bulletin is a useful tool for Hams and enthusiasts of the White Continent.

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TNX Max IK1GPG & Betty IK1QFM

DX-pedition of the year in a very rare spot in the Sub Antarctic: Bouvet Island, one of the most wanted DXCC among WW Ham Radio. The big guns have already worked 3YØK on several Bands and Modes and now a question arise: “Where on the island they did set the two camps?”

A Spot posted by the Team on March 3, 2026 reports: -Team 3Y0K is already active from the Island at the two Base Camps-.
Among the information received it seems that one camp is for North America (North America Camp?) and one for the rest of the world. Both camps are safe and secure with 8 tents in total. One camp is located at the NA focus location.

In addition, the pics on the web show both Camps but so far nobody has mentioned about the exact location. (see the pics aside)

Another question that arose from the Hams/ Antarctic Chasers:   «How can we know which of the two camps we have worked?»

Yes 2 camps on Bouvet Island is a fantastic opportunity, perhaps they could be 2 “New WAP References” but to know that, we must know the name of the 2 Camps and their exact location (Latitude and Longitude).

Eventually a Map of Bouvet Island showing the location of the two camps might be helpful.

In the lack of information, 3YØK will be consider just as WAP NOR-Ø2, but QRX for a while, maybe we can get  more details soon!

On February 22, 1968, the year-round Soviet Polar Station Bellingshausen began operating in West Antarctica, 58 years since then!

King George Island, part of the South Shetland Islands group, one of the most picturesque regions of Antarctica, was chosen for the construction of the station. The Station’s employees still carry out geographical, geological and biological studies of the Ice Continent. However, in the past, the number of winterers exceeded the current number of employees: 8 year-round personnel and 5 seasonal specialists.

The first wooden houses built here were designed for 20 people. And already in the 70s, wooden houses were replaced with more reliable aluminum buildings. During the same period, a powerful radio center appeared at the station, which served not only scientists, but also the fishing fleet in the southern Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

By the end of the 80s, the station already employed 28 year-round personnel. In the summer, 25 more scientists joined them. But in the 90s, funding was reduced, and the Bellingshausen Station (WAP RUS-Ø1) operated in the format of a seasonal field station.

It was only in 1997 that the Government again allocated funding for the implementation of the Russian Antarctic Expedition (RAE). Thanks to this, Russia has maintained its geopolitical presence in Antarctica, and its scientific human resources have been saved.

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At the same time, the geographical location and climatic conditions of the Station allow scientists to carry out a number of unique scientific research. For example, during the wintering period, observations on meteorology, atmospheric physics, coastal hydrology, biology, ecology are carried out there, as well as satellite images are being received to analyze the development of drifting ice in Antarctica.

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In January 2020, a monument to Thaddeus Bellingshausen was unveiled on the shores of King George Island at the Russian Station, to whom it is named

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In the mid 1990s, Patriarch Alexius II of Moscow gave his blessing for this audacious project. The church was constructed in Russia and transported by a supply ship to its present location. One or two monks from Troitse-Sergiyeva Lavra, considered the most important Russian monastery as it is the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church, volunteer to man the church year-round.

While most of the buildings on this continent are built to hug the ground to reduce their exposure to the polar wind, this church proudly stands 15 meters tall. It is a wooden structure constructed from Siberian pine and carved in the traditional Russian style by master carpenters of Altay.

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February 15, 2004:

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The Holy Trinity Church at the Russian Bellingshausen Station in Antarctica was consecrated.
Located on a rocky hill near the Bellingshausen Station, making it the southernmost Eastern Orthodox church in the world.  The 15-meter-tall Holy Trinity Church, constructed from Siberian pine and cedar to withstand extreme polar conditions, was built to serve the Russian Orthodox community and to honor the Russian polar explorers.

On Saturday, February 21st, starting at 3:00 PM, the city of Imperia did celebrate an  Antarctic Day at the Auditorium of Naval Museum , featuring the Cepparo  HF expedition radio equipment.

The 1975 expedition to Antarctica was the first private Italian mission to the white Continent, carried out during the austral summer of 1975-76 aboard the Norwegian ship Rig Mate, by Renato Cepparo signing I1SR. Its purpose was to conduct scientific research (geological, mountaineering, and underwater) and establish the Giacomo Bove Base (the first Italian base).

Four speakers took turns presenting the day:

Dr. Fabio Baio – Geologist.
Six expeditions to Antarctica, where he supervised the technological aspects of permafrost drilling. He collaborates primarily with the University of Insubria and the University of Milan. He is an expert on the 1975/76 Cepparo Expedition, of which he has preserved numerous documents, as can be seen at: https://ingvambiente.com/2020/05/12/la-prima-spedizione-italiana-in-antartide-renato-ce pparo-1975/

Lt. Danilo Collino (IZ1KHY) – Italian Army- Alpine Corps.
Mountaineer, mountain guide, amateur radio operator (IZ1KHY). Four expeditions to Antarctica with a wide range of experience.

Gianni Varetto (I1HYW)–Journalist .
Long-standing communications activity with Antarctica. For several years, he manages a website www.waponline.it  dedicated to Amateur Radio in Antarctica, which has got so far, over a million views from all over the world. Since 1979, he (and IK1GPG)  set and archived a collection of information on Antarctic Bases and refuges (WAP-WADA Directory), dating back to 1945.

Prof. Julius Fabbri, PhD – (IV3CCT)  Science teacher at Carducci-Dante Institute in Trieste.
He created a scale replica of the ruins of the Italian Giacomo Bove Base at the Malignani Institute in the city of Udine. He will discuss the project to promote the remains of the Bove Base in Antarctica as a  “Historic Site and Monument” (HSM).

In addition, Gabriele IK1NEG who did moderate the event, announce that he will be active as II1SR/p (WAP-363) from February 22nd to March 1st from the Naval Museum of Imperia, using the original RTX Swan 700cx used by the Cepparo’s Expedition at the Giacomo Bove Base back in 1975/76.

This transceiver (pic to the Left) was donated by Renato Cepparo himself to the founder of the Museum, Flavio Serafini.

Today marks 122 years of uninterrupted Argentinean presence in Antarctica. On February 22, 1904, Argentina began its institutional Antarctic presence by taking charge of the meteorological observatory on Laurie Island, in the South Orkney Islands.

Last February 2003, WAP (Worldwide Antarctic Program) did launch an Antarctica Activity Week (AAW), addressed to the Hams worldwide, to be celebrated every year on last week of February, which should incorporate the 22nd of February, where Argentines celebrate the “Dia De La Antartida Argentina” (Argentine’s Antarctica Day).

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Since then, several Special Event Stations (SES) from different Nations in the world, join the venture every years.

E-Awards are available for free:
Check: https://www.waponline.it/antarctic-activity-week/

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Happy Antarctic Activity Week 2026!

See: https://www.waponline.it/antarctic-activity-week/aaw-2026/ 

Black Island, USA Telecommunication Facility is listed on WAP-WADA Directory as USA-NEW.
The satellite site located on Black Island in Antarctica at 78°07′South, 166°08′East is commonly referred to as the Black Island satellite receiving station. (Picture aside show Black Island facility, 27 October 2014. Thanks and credit to Peter Rejcek, USAP Photo Library)

Situated about 25 miles south of McMurdo Station, it serves as the primary communications hub for the U.S. Antarctic Program, utilizing large microwave dishes to facilitate satellite data, phone, and internet services. The station is on the summit of Mount Melania, a rounded hill about 330 meters high at the northern end of Black Island in the Ross Archipelago. It lies east of Mount Ewart and North of Melania Ridge.

When Black Island was initially used to transmit and receive communication signals, there were fewer satellites viewable in the sky and it was the only location feasible. However, today there are more satellites viewable from Ross Island, making this location a better location due to its easier accessibility. The antennas and dishes at Black Island are still in place and used as well.

This location proved unsuitable for the long term, as the satellite service was to be changed/relocated so that it would be inaccessible behind Mt. Erebus. The Black Island facility also included other HF and VHF towers and systems, a 16′ x 32′ Jamesway shelter for temporary housing, fuel tanks, a 1200 Watts ORMAT JP-8-fueled closed cycle vapor turbine generator, and a wind turbine and battery storage system. Concurrently with the Black Island installation, the SPSDL was also installed in 1984-85 to provide data communication between Pole and McMurdo using low earth orbit satellites.

Read more at: https://www.southpolestation.com/trivia/90s/blackisland.html

The plan is to move all communications to Ross Island and remove the station on Black Island over the next several years.

On February 13, 1956, the first Russian Antarctic Research Station was opened on the Davis Sea coast marking the beginning of continuous scientific observations in Antarctica.
The station was named Mirny after one of the vessels of the Russian South Polar Expedition of 1819-21 under the leadership of F.F. Bellingshausen and M.P. Lazarev.

The expedition was led by the famous polar explorer and outstanding polar researcher, the head of the drifting station “North Pole-2”, Hero of the Soviet Union,  Mikhail Mikhailovich Somov. (pic aside)

During the first, second and third KAE (1955-1959), the stations Pionerskaya (WAP RUS-1Ø), Oasis, Vostok1 (WAP RUS-14), Komsomolskaya (WAP RUS-Ø5), Vostok (WAP RUS-13), Sovetskaya, and Pole of Inaccessibility were opened.

TNX UA6GG Oleg @ DX Trophy

To day, WAP does not have evidence of any Ham Radio activity from:
1) Oasis Station (https://www.waponline.it/bunger-oasis-station-wap-rus-new/) ,
2) Sovetskaya Station, (https://www.waponline.it/sovetskaya-research-station-wap-rus-new/ ) and
3) Pole of Inaccessibility Station (https://www.waponline.it/the-southern-pole-of-inaccessibility-camp-wap-rus-new/)  therefore,  these 3 Bases are still WAP RUS-NEW.

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In addition to the 7Øth Anniversary of Mirny Station, it is also interesting to know that, on Jan 5, 1956, the diesel-electric ship Ob carrying a team of Soviet scientists and polar explorers reached the Antarctic continent. From that day onward, large-scale national research in Antarctica began. The work of these pioneers is still carried forward today by the Russian Antarctic Expedition of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AARI).

Andreas, DL3LRM, is one of the OPs of the German Research Vessel Polarstern.
He is on board of the Research Icebreaker since a couple days now and plans to participate in AAW 2026 with DP0POL/MM (WAP-317).
Andreas informs that currently they are nearby Elephant Island, sailing further South for research in the region of the Antarctic Peninsula and the western Weddell Sea until the end of March.
Look lor DPØPOL/MM from now and ahead, particularly during the Antarctic Activity Week; Andreas has promised to be active as much as he can and he hopes to log many of the Antarctic hunters on the bands from R/V Polarstern.

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TNX Andreas, DL3LRM

Grado island, relives Renato Cepparo’s Antarctic adventure and the 50th Anniversary of the construction of the Giacomo Bove Base (WAP ITA-Ø2) in Antarctica.

It roamed among the ice of Antarctica, braving the katabatic winds, a dream that explorer Renato Cepparo managed to crystallize overseas, albeit briefly.

In memory of the 1st Italian Base in Antarctica, Saturday, February 7th, 2026,  members of the ARI (Italian Amateur Radio Association) of Grado gathered early on Schiusa Island, operating a SES “II3IUSR” WAP-366.  “The goal is to make as many QSOs as possible, explained Julius Fabbri, president of the AdriAntartica association, during a break. This intense effort aims to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the first Italian Base in Antarctica which fell on January 20th, at the end of which two plaques were awarded to the ARI and the ANMI (National Marine Association of Italian Sailors) of Grado for their collaboration.
A total on 272 QSOs has been made: 43 on 20 mts, 143 on 40 mts, 86 on QO-100.
e-QSL for II3IUSR via IQ3AZ
TNX Prof. Julius Fabbri & Hams from ARI-Grado (IV3CVM, IV3DXW, IV3VFR)

Historical notes of Grado island
Grado (Latin: Gradus) is a town and municipality in the regional decentralization entity of Gorizia in the north-eastern Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, located on an island and adjacent peninsula of the Adriatic Sea between Venice and Trieste.
Of Roman origin, Grado (gradus, landing) was founded in the 2nd century AD as fisherman’s village and, later, harbour for ships sailing up the river Natissa towards Aquileia. Grado developed, around the middle of the 5th century AD, when many inhabitants fled to the island to escape the devastating Hun hordes led by Attila which, in 452 AD, destroyed nearby Aquileia. During that eventful period, the Patriarch of Aquileia moved to Grado and proclaimed himself Patriarch of this site. Grado remained an independent Patriarch site until 1451 even if, in the middle of the 12th century, the Patriarch himself moved his residence to Venice.
Grado thus returned to being a fishermen’s village, and remained so throughout the following centuries, under the Republic of Venice. From 1797 (with the Treaty di Campoformido) to 1918, it belonged to the Austrian dominions.In 1892, the Austrian-Hungarian State established the tourism company in Grado to promote its value as a seaside resort and the therapeutic virtues of its “strong marine vapour”. That same year the first European establishment for sand-bathing was inaugurated. The island, already known as a tourist destination, in the summer of 1856 hosted the writer Ippolito Nievo

DL1RUN Karsten Stephan, is a keen Antarctic hunter and owner of Special Event Stations to celebrate Antarctica: DAØANT (WAP-128), DQ6ØANT (WAP-316).

At the time of the 23rd AAW 2026 and to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the first German station in Antarctica, Karsten has requested to the German Telecommunications Authority, two new Special Event calls to celebrate both the events: DM5ØANT (WAP-364) and DP5ØANT (WAP-365).

TNX Karsten DL1RUN

Germany’s first permanently occupied Antarctic research station, was the Base Laboratory near Novolazatevskaya, which was opened in 1976. The Georg von Neumayer Station (GvN), came later in 1981 on the Ekström Ice Shelf, marking Germany’s continuous presence and leading to full member status in the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Party.. In 1987 the Base Laboratory has been expanded and renamed into Georg Forster Station.

While earlier expeditions explored, the GvN in 1981 established consistent year-round research, fulfilling the “5Ø years ago” timeframe  and solidifying German scientific commitment.
Read the full History at: https://50ant.hamaward.de/en/georg-forster-station-en/ 

An interesting retrospective about the 1st German Antarctic Expedition 1901-03, is on the Polar Journal at: https://polarjournal.net/the-1st-german-antarctic-expedition-1901-03/

Check also: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/von-Neumayer-Station-(-GvN-)-and-Neumayer-Station-(-Georg-Janneck/d2a93e9efba16a6e103e775c4d45b1aca648941b for pictures and additional information

An Award program commemorating 5Ø years of German Antarctic research is being prepared on the website https://50ant.hamaward.de . The Award program will start with AAW-2026 with the three stations DAØANT, DM5ØANT and DP5ØANT. In April, two stations DM5ØGFS and DP2ØØGVN will be added. The award can be worked until 30 April 2026.

23^rd Antarctic Activity Week will start next February 16 and will last till February 22^nd 2026.
Check: https://www.waponline.it/antarctic-activity-week/aaw-2026/

The “New Depot Camp” is a seasonal base where fuel and all kinds of cargo are being reloaded. The camp is located at 70°17’57” South, 02°25’17” West,  as shown in the attached locator map, practically near the ice covered Blåskimen and Novyy Islands.

Following the great activity from Oleg ZS7ANF, mostly on 17, 20 and 30 meters, after having got pictures and details of this “new site”, a brand new WAP reference has been given as WAP MNB-23.

The “New Depot Camp” will be added on the next issue of WAP-WADA Directory (June 2026 issue) as:

MNB-23

New Depot Camp at 70°17’57” South,  02°25’17” West, located in

Princess Ragnhild Coast, Queen Maud Land, Antarctica

TNX Oleg ZS7ANF for his high performance HF operation and to Oleg UA6GG @DX Trophy for his precious support

Bull Pass at 77°26’4Ø”South, 161°51’Ø6″East, is a remote site in the Dry Valleys, Southern Victoria Land near McMurdo Station in Antarctica that hosts Huts & Communication Station; a couple of research and refuge structures being recently visited by KL5SE Andrew T Winkelman.

Andrew signing KC4/KL7SE has worked SSB and FT8 logging quite a number of QSOs  which allow WAP to issue a brand new reference to this remote site,  as WAP USA-54, which will appear on next release of WAP WADA Directory of June 2026.

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See also:  https://www.waponline.it/bull-pass-huts-communication-station-dry-valley-wap-usa-new/ .

WAP congratulates and thank Andrew KL5SE on his tireless work and thanks him for his activity from four brand new remote locations in Antarctica during his 2026 Antarctic Campaign!

Exactly 50 years ago, on January 20, 1976, with the raising flag ceremony Renato Cèpparo, I2VZP, did inaugurate the first Italian Base on the Antarctic Peninsula. Interestingly, the motor vessel Cristoforo Colombo set sail from the port of Tieste with 22 tons of prefabricated material to build the base.

The Station was set in a location of natural and strategic importance, the warmest and most easily accessible in Antarctica. At that time, a first Italian Hamradio Station operating in Antarctica from “Giacomo Bove Camp” (WAP ITA-Ø2), was on the air for a while with the call sign I1SR.

After just eight months, the Giacomo Bove Base, was dismantled by the Argentine Navy!

Tuesday, January 20, 2026, a ceremony marking the 5Ø^th Anniversary of the inauguration of the Base named after the 19th-century hydrographer, sailor Giacomo Bove, was held in Triste (Italy).

On 20 January 2026, an Historical Reenactment took place at the same pier to send a signal of friendship, peace, and scientific cooperation with raising of Argentine and Italian flags in Trieste in front of the Maritime Station.

Despite the freezing wind and poor propagation, a group of students of the Carducci-Dante High School, led by Prof. PhD Julius Fabbri (IV3CCT) did operate II3IUSR, a special call to celebrate the event, to honor the Italians who initiated Italy into the Antarctic Treaty and to strengthened friendship with Argentina, with the aim of proposing a joint nomination as a “Historic Site” for the remains of the Giacomo Bove Base; a message for peace and international scientific cooperation.

Thanks have been expressed by Julius Fabbri IV3CCTto the precious and kind participants in the mini-ceremony held in Trieste.

   

EM3ØVER (WAP-357) is the Special Event callsign issued to celebrate the 3Øth Anniversary of Ukrainian Antarctic Station    “Akademik Vernadsky”  (WAP UKR-Ø1) in Antarctica.
Ukrainian SES activity will last from 01 February 2026 to 01 March 2026.

A special Ministerial diploma will be issued to celebrate the Anniversary.

One QSO with EM3ØVER (National Antarctic Research Center Station) or two QSOs with different SES operated by Ukrainian Antarctic operators: EM3ØKY (op. UT1KY) WAP-359, EM3ØKCC (op. UR5KCC) WAP-360, EM3ØLV (op. UR8LV) WAP-361, EN3ØUA (op. UT7UA) WAP-362 are required to get the award available for Free in electronic format to OM & SWL.
Operators will be “On Air” all bands all modes

(Pics below show samples of  the E-Award)

                                                                                   

Application with contact details have to be sent to: em30ver@ukr.net   

TNX Pavlo UT1KY

Bull Pass Huts & Communication Station at Bull Pass Dry Valley, Southern Victoria Land at 77°26’4Ø”South, 161°51’Ø6″East, are a couple of research and refuge structures located in the Dry Valleys, near McMurdo Station in Antarctica.

Bull Pass, a low-elevation mountain pass in Victoria Land, provides a crucial link between two arid valleys, known to be among the most snow and ice-free areas on the continent. Located between McKelvey Valley and Wright Valley within the Olympus Range, it is famous for being named in honor of Dr. Colin Bull, a prominent polar explorer and geologist who worked extensively in Antarctica. Dr. Colin Bull has been the leader of the 1958-59 New Zealand UWAE expedition.

Bull Pass Huts & Communication Station are still used by scientific expeditions for study, especially in geology and biology, with older US structures remaining but designated as a decommissioned site within an Antarctic Specially Managed Area, this site offers a glimpse into the fragile, ancient ecosystems studied there.

Historically and currently the Bull Pass Huts hosts scientific facilities, including a past “Seismic Hut” are used as field camps and refuges for scientific research, particularly in the unique, ice-free areas. While older US structures remain, the site is considered decommissioned, though facilities and maintenance continue for research activities.

In essence, Bull Pass Huts are though scientific outposts known more for its unique ice-free landscape and its extreme environment, with temporary field shelters used by researchers rather than permanent historical dwellings. The Dry Valleys are famous for being ice-free, making them crucial for scientific study.

Antarctica New Zealand, records a “Seismic Hut at Bull Pass” used by researchers in the 1990s, indicating temporary scientific shelters.
(Pictures courtesy of New Zealand Antarctic Web Site)

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Dr. Colin Bruce Bradley Bull
Born (June 13, 1928) in Birmingham, England, Dr. Bull first ventured into the Arctic as part of a 1951 university expedition to the island of Spitsbergen. After taking a university job in New Zealand, Dr. Bull launched one of the first expeditions to the dry valleys of Antarctica, eerie ice-free basins where temperatures in the spring and summer, range between subzero and shirt sleeves.

Colin Bull, whose career as a scientist included many adventures in the Arctic and Antarctic, died Sept. 7^th 2010 at the age of 82 while on an Alaskan cruise.

Read more at: https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/scientist-colin-bull-latter-day-polar-adventurer-dies/

Bull Pass Huts & Communication Station is listed on WAP-WADA Directory as USA-NEW.
Around mid January, Andrew KL5SE will operate from there as KC4/KL5SE. By now, the provisional reference given to Bull Pass Huts & Communication Station is WAP USA-54 As soon as he will show upon the air, the reference will be confirmed.

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WAP congratulates Andrew KL5SE on his tireless work and thanks him for his activity from “four brand new remote locations in Antarctica” during his 2025-2026 Antarctic campaign.