On last June 12.2025 WAP got two sad messages: Two Polar Hams radio amateurs went SK. Pavel Petrovich Budanov (Pavlo) UX2HO/EM1HO from Poltava (UKR) and Marek Kraszula SP3GVX/HF0POL from Sljubice (Poland).

Paul Budanov UX2HO/EM1HO replaced Pavlo Tarasovych UT1KY (ex EM1KY, VP8/UT1KY, LU1Z/UT1KY) at Vernadsky Academic Station (WAP UKR-Ø1) and UT1KY wintered in the years 2000-2001 with Marek (Picture aside) when SP3GVX/HF0POL was on Henrik Arktovsky (WAP POL-Ø1).
UT1KY recalls: “When I was on Vernadsky, I did use to chat with Marek every dayin the evening, and we had a constant radio contacts. When Marek did end his time in Antarctica, he came to visit me to Ukraina”.

The staff of the Ukrainian National Antarctic Research Center wrote: «It is with deep sadness that we announce that on June 12 of this year, at the age of 65, Pavlo Petrovich Budanov UX2HO, (pic below to the Right) a Ukrainian Polar explorer and radio operator, passed away.  As a communications administrator, he wintered at the Akademik Vernadsky Station three times: in the second (1997-1998), sixth (2001-2002), and ninth (2004-2005) Ukrainian Antarctic Expeditions.  Pavlo Petrovich was fond of radio work since childhood and devoted more than 50 years of his life to it. He was an avid radio amateur, had the title of Master of Sports of the USSR in radio sports, and repeatedly became the champion of Ukraine in radio communications and amateur radio triathlon».

On Febr. 2-2015, another great friend, Georgy Chliyants (UY5XE) published a list of Amateur radio callsigns active from BASE “F” FARADAY (WAP GBR-Ø6)from 1963  till 1981:
VP8AAO, VP8AEG, VP8AEI (1981), VP8AEJ, VP8AEN (1981-83), VP8AGJ, VP8AJZ, VP8AQA (1983-84), VP8BQX, VP8BXQ (1989), VP8CME, VP8CQC (1995), VP8CRE (1995), VP8EE (1961 – prima attività!), VP8FAR (1977-78/91-93), VP8GAV (1991-93), VP8IK (1963/66), VP8IU (1967), VP8JI (1967), VP8JV (?), VP8MH (1971), VP8MJ (1971), VP8MS (1972/74/93), VP8NO (1976), VP8OB (1975-76), VP8OT (1976), VP8PB (1976), VP8QI (1977-79), VP8SB (1983), VP8ST (1971), VP8SU (1979).

On February 17, 1996, by decree of Her Majesty and the decision of the Government of Great Britain, Base “F” Faraday  Antarctic Station was donated to Ukraine and given the name “Akademik Vernadsky”.

Operators of the station “Akademik Vernadsky”:
15.12.1995-16.02.1996 – Roman Bratchik (UX1KA): VP8CTR
17.02.1996-24.10.1998 – Roman Bratchik (UX1KA): EM1KA [28627 QSO]
15.04.1996 to the present– club LRS: EM1U
28/02/1997-15/03/1998 – Pavel Budanov (UX2HO): EM1HO [45500 QSO]
16/03/1998-05/03/1999 – Oleg Satyrev (UR8LV): EM1LV [15954 QSO]
04.08.1999-29.03.1000 – Alexander Miho (UR5KGG): EM1KGG [571 QSO]
02/04/2000-07/02/2001 – Pavlo Tarasovich (UT1KY): EM1KY [15000 QSO]
23/02/2001-25/02/2002 – Pavel Budanov (UX2HO): EM1HO [40450 QSO]
02/07/2001-?.02/2002 – Igor Klubuk (UR5KCC): EM1KCC]
?.02.2002-?.03.2003 – Alexander Miho (UR5KGG): EM1KGG
?.03.2003- ?.03.2004 – Roman Bratchik (UT7UA): EM1KA]
28/02/2004-27/03/2005 – Pavel Budanov (UX2HO): EM1HO [28700 QSO]

TNX Pavlo Tarasovych UT1KY
While we share the memory of these two friends who are no longer among us, WAP (Worldwide Antarctic Program) expresses its sincerest sympathy and condolences to the families of these two Antarctics who were able to give us, through the radio waves the emotions of several QSOs. R.I.P.

Dundee is one of the largest cities in Scotland, which is located along the Firth of Tay, very beautiful, natural habitat. A popular Dundee tourist attraction exploring the city’s maritime history, is Dundee Heritage Trust at Discovery Point, which includes Captain Scott’s Antarctic exploration ship RRS Discovery, which is currently undergoing a major restoration project.

Discovery Point is the home of the Royal Research Ship Discovery, an icon of scientific exploration and adventure inspiring millions of people around the globe since her launch in 1901. The Captain Scott’s Antarctic exploration ship, RSS Discovery “one of the world’s most-important historical vessels” has been beautifully restored and visitors can explore the engine room, cargo hold, galley, mess deck, chart room and the relatively luxurious officers’ Wardroom with Captain Scott’s cabin looking as if he’d just left.

RRS Discovery is known for being the last three- masted vessel built from wood in Britain. Discovery Point is a place where you can see the beauty of Polar Regions trough special effects and audio-visual presentations.

Before embarking on the RRS Discovery, visitors are taken through a series of exhibition areas that explain the purpose of Scott’s mission, the construction of the Discovery, and the equipment used for Antarctic exploration in the early 1900’s.

It really is worth reading the details as there are some fascinating facts, but don’t worry as there are also films that explain the history of Antarctic Exploration and the RSS Discovery.

Embark on an intrepid voyage through time at Discovery Point, the perfect destination for adventurers of all ages. Explore the pioneering Royal Research Ship Discovery and uncover the stories of her illustrious past, from her beginnings in the shipyards of Dundee and her legendary Antarctic expedition of 1901 under Captain Scott, to her many adventures beyond. Step aboard and immerse yourself in the journey of Discovery!

Located at 79°35’ South, 83°48’ West ,“Three Glaciers Camp” is an exclusive retreat tucked away deep in the interior of Antarctica. Nestled at the base of Mount Sporli in the Ellsworth Mountains, this area is the definition of remote.

Three Glacier Camp, is the ultimate wilderness, surrounded by pristine views, untouched spaces, and profound silence; it lies at the head of three glaciers: Schneider, Schanz, and Driscoll.

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Schneider Glacier (79°29′S 84°17′W)
Schanz Glacier (79°45′S 83°40′W)
Driscoll Glacier (79°42′S 83°0′W)

Let’s see if the 2025-2026 Antarctic season will give the hunters a chance to log this brand new one… by now, we keep our finger crossed!

Three Glaciers Camp at 79°35’ South, 83°48’ West in the Ellsworth Mountains will be add to WAP-WADA Directory in the Multinational section as WAP MNB-NEW.

Our good friend Eddy De Busschere of the Belgian Polar Expedition Society (BPES), has kindly sent a couple of philatelic covers showing the Japanese Asuka and Dome Fuji Stations in Antarctica.

Eddy wrote: «I saw your remarks on QSL contacts via Asuka and Dome Fuji. These bases were Summer Bases and were not occupied the past years.

From the Belgian PES, a Team travels to Asuka to maintain the station. The Team at Asuka was from Luxemburg and Iran

To Dome Fuji there were several traverse parties to prepare the Station for further ice core drilling. The cover was signed by the Belgian Traverse Leader Alain Hubert, also Station Leader at PES».
TNX Eddy De Busschere  pole@telenet.be  
ASPP-PPHSGB-CEPP-Arge Polarphilatelie

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From the Ham Radio stand point, we hope some HF Radio activities, connected  to these remarkable joint ventures, can come on the air, particularly because  Asuka and Mizuho Stations are silent on air since about 35-40 years now!

Many Hams did work Dome Fuji  (WAP JPN-04) 22 years ago  on oct.2003!

After 30 incredible years of service, Ivan the Terra Bus has been retired from service to the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) McMurdo Station (WAP USA-22). For the last 30 years, Ivan the Terra Bus has dutifully transported people between Antarctica’s airfields and research stations. The 2024–25 summer season marked Ivan’s final days on the ice.
Ivan was not just any old bus; he was a legend at NSF McMurdo Station. It is estimated that over his 30-year stretch, Ivan carried more than 100,000 support personnel, NSF grantees and military support staff between the station and airfields, braving extreme conditions and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Arriving at McMurdo in 1993, Ivan weighed over 54,000 lb. without fuel, cargo or passengers. The massive bus sported a 300-horsepower engine, stretched nearly 46 feet long, could carry 56 passengers at a time, and reach a top speed of just over 20 mph. For those fortunate enough to ride in Ivan or take the wheel, the journey was unforgettable.
We bid farewell to Ivan, but the legacy will always live on in the stories of Antarctic adventurers.

Thanks and Credit to NSF-USAP

India plans to establish a new Research Station in Antarctica, named Maitri-2, to replace the aging Maitri Station, with operations scheduled to commence by 2029, enhancing India’s research capabilities in the region. This move aims to significantly enhance India’s research capabilities on the frozen continent, allowing for advanced studies in fields like climate change, glaciology, and biodiversity.

The proposed project envisages adherence to environmental protocols for Antarctica and improving the quality of Indian scientific research in Antarctica

Maitri-2 is intended to replace the existing Maitri station, which was built in 1988 and is now considered old.  The new Station will be located in East Antarctica, near the existing Maitri Station, and  is expected to be operational by 2029.

Maitri-2 will be a state-of-the-art facility that adheres to environmental norms and will be able to accommodate approximately 90 scientists. The new station will allow for advanced studies in fields like climate change, glaciology, and biodiversity, enhancing India’s research capabilities on the frozen continent.

India  has three permanent Research stations in Antarctica: Dakshin Gangotri (decommissioned) WAP IND-Ø1, Maitri WAP IND-Ø3, Bharati WAP IND-Ø4 and Indian Bay Camp WAP IND-Ø2 (used as a supply Base and transit Camp for the Indian Antarctic Program.
Maitri-2 will be a “New entry”  on WAP WADA Directory when the base will be operational and “On the Air”.

Thanks for his availability, we got a change to work Denney VU2DGR who is actually at Bharati Base (WAP IND-Ø4) signing AT44I.

We experienced some better conditions on 20 mts in the morning from 05:00 to 07:00 UTC, where we log AT44I on different frequencies.
There will be other chances , for those who are still waiting to make contact, so give a glance to the Custer, keep your finger crossed  and stay tuned!

Thanks to Denney VU2DGR for his kindness to be on the air as per sked.
TNX also to Bhagwati VU3BPZ who have allow us to arrange the sked.

The Kharkovchanka (Russian: Харьковчанка) or Kharkivyanka (Ukrainian: Харків’янка, “Woman of Kharkiv“), is an Antarctic all-terrain vehicle produced in 1958; the basis of the vehicle, was the AT-T tractor. It was equipped with a 520 horse power diesel engine that, in addition to the weight of the vehicle (35 tons), could tow a trailer weighing 70 tons. Since it was designed for the exploration of the Antarctic, the ability to tow this amount of weight was essential for transporting the fuel needed for the expeditions.
The cabin contained seats for the driver and navigator, as well as 8 beds on two levels, a bathroom and a kitchen with the ability to heat canned food and drinks, a heater and a radio station. The cabin provided access to the Kharkovchanka engine, so that, if necessary, it could be repaired and maintained without leaving the heat. It appears that 5 were built. 

“Kharkovchanka” , the Russia’s Colossal Antarctic Cruisers  which have been continuously operating in some of the most extreme environments on Earth for over 50 years, was produced in the late 1950s in Kharkiv, when Ukraina was part of the Soviet Socialistic Republics.

These amazing Snow Cruisers featured everything a polar explorer could need in the field. In their half-century mission, they have crossed thousands of miles on Antarctic Ice, visited the South Pole, the Pole of inaccessibility as well the dozens of outposts and Research Stations on the Continent.

By the 39th Russian Antarctic Expedition, Vityaz DT-30Ps replaced the Kharkovchankas. Those were themselves later replaced by “PistenBully 300” Polar vehicles.

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The last of the Kharkovchankas was retired only a few years ago (in 2008) and is now standing as an “Historic Monument” at Progress Station (WAP RUS-11).

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While not directly related to philately, its unique history and role in Antarctica, have sometimes been commemorated through philatelic items like stamps or special covers.

VU2DGR, op Denney George (Home QTH Mavelikara, Kerala) is showing up from Bharati Research Station (WAP IND-Ø4) at Larsemann Hills signing AT44I.
Denney has been reported recently (25 & 28 April 2025) on 20 mts, 14244MHz (+/-)  around 05,00 UTC long path for EU, so, antenna pointed through the North.

VU2DGR, Denney George is working among the 44th Indian Scientific Expedition to the southern Continent. The 44th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica (44-ISEA) has two potential return timelines depending on whether the scientist is working during the summer or winter season. Scientists working during the summer season (October-November 2024 to February-April 2025) would return by April 2025. Those working during the winter season would return between December 2025 and March 2026.

Finger crossed while hoping to put AT44I on the log.
QSL via VU2DGR.
Ads for direct QSL: 
Denney George, Kizhakkemala Kizhakkethil, Kunnam P.O, Mavelikara Alappuzha Kerala, 690108, India.

Departing from the Drake Passage (South America) on December 5, 2024, Fedor Konyukhov RØFK reached the longitude of Cape Agulhas (South Africa) in 68 days, setting a world record as the first person to row across the South Atlantic. He also celebrated his 73rd birthday in the South Atlantic on December 12, 2024.The estimated finish point in Western Australia is 3,270 miles away (6,100 km).
Fedor Konyukhov  was sailing on the rowing boat “AKROS” from Cape Horn (Peri Antarctic area) to Cape Luin (Australia). On February 6, at the border between the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans, a historic meeting of the scientific research vessel Akademik Fedorov and the AKROS boat took place.

Day 114. It was decided to end the expedition!
After assessing all the damages and malfunctions on board the AKROS rowing boat, the crew suggested that Fyodor Konyukhov complete the transition for technical reasons and evacuate aboard the passing vessel. This decision was supported by all the project partners.

In the coming days, on March 30-31, favorable weather will be established in the area where the AKROS boat is located. The vessel will be able to get close enough and launch a boat to arrange a transfer. They will try to raise the AKROS boat, if it fails, Fyodor Konyukhov will conserve all systems, close the hatches and drift towards Australia with the Iridium Rock Star satellite buoy turned on for possible further towing to the port.

The reasons for this decision.
At that moment, the boat’s key control and life support systems were out of order. Fedor confirmed that a new one was been added to the current malfunctions — the autopilot control unit has completely failed. This means that in the conditions of future storms, the boat would not be able to keep on the set course and it inevitably got sideways to the wave, which would  lead to new overturns and critical damage.

Read more on the official website: https://konyukhov.ru/en/news/

March 31, 2025
Early morning. A familiar call from a familiar Iridium number, as if it were another day of the expedition, but this is a different reality and Fyodor Konyukhov is in different conditions.

Fedor called in a good mood. “The first night, I slept on a flat bed and on white sheets. A hot shower, white sheets, a spacious cabin, no rocking, and a bed are luxuries. It’s some other world. All these days and nights I slept with my feet against the bulkheads, in the strut, the boat was falling from side to side. Saved the vest under my head. And there were two pillows and a bed that you can’t roll off!
I live on the lower deck, the porthole does not open. Breakfast is brought to the cabin (to the infirmary). Water in the cooler, drink as much as you want. They promised to take me on an excursion to the engine room. As a motorist, this is interesting to me (I served in the Baltic on medium amphibious assault ships in the BCH-5).
I’m getting used to Asian food, everything is very spicy and there are a lot of spices for me, I’m not used to such a variety of flavors. There are freeze–dried foods in the ocean every day. I looked at myself in the mirror, and I felt like I had lost 15 kilograms. I lost weight like this, three times: in 2000, when I ran in the IDITAROD dog sled race through Alaska, in 2012 after climbing Mount Everest, and in 2013 when we went skiing and dog sledding across the Arctic Ocean from the North Pole to Canada (Ward Hunt Island) with my friend Viktor Simonov. In all three expeditions, there was extreme physical exertion and plowing.
I’m going through yesterday’s evacuation again. 115 days in the ocean were difficult and risky, but the evacuation was the height of the risk. When people think that you called, a ship came to you and took you on board, this is a misconception. In the open ocean, especially in such latitudes, the chances of crossing without serious injury are 50-50. Thank God, I managed to get on board the cargo ship alive and well. The weather was optimal, we managed to get into the weather window, and if the weather was like on February 6, when the Akademik Fedorov was approaching, you couldn’t move in such weather.

WAP wishes readers and Antarctic enthusiasts a Happy Easter, a celebration of PEACE among peoples.

From Antarctica to the Arctic, from the North Pole to the South Pole, one word, “Peace”.
Peace  among Nations, Peace and serenity in all families.

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Happy Easter and Happy Easter holidays,                                                               20 April 2025

 

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Lt. Danilo Collino of the Italian Army, has been in Antarctica following the Summer season 2024-2025. Danilo did operate as IAØ/IZ1KHY and IAØ/IZ1KHY/P from various sites: Concordia Station (WAP MNB-Ø3), Mario Zucchelli Station (WAP ITA-Ø1),Little Dome C-Beyond Epica Camp (WAP MNB-15), IZ1KHY/IAØ/Mobile and Dome C-Summer Camp (WAP MNB-14).

5 different QSLs, one for each of the five locations,  are now ready to send. Hams who did work Danilo can request the cards which will be available (direct  only) through the

QSL Manager,  I1URL:
Orlando Collino,
Via V. Bersezio 1
12010 VIGNOLO (CN) – Italy 

 

                   

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TNX Danilo Collino IZ1KHY

Will Ruskaya Station soon again on air?  Here below, something good to know!
Russkaya Station  (WAP RUS-12) was a Soviet Antarctic Research station located at 74°46′South, 136°52′West (Ruppert Coast, Marie Byrd Land in Western Antarctica). The station was proposed in 1973 and approved in 1978. Construction began in 1979 and it was opened on March 9, 1980. Russkaya Station was put in storage in 1990.
Polar explorers have visited it three times since then, but the Station has not fully resumed operation, Alexander Klepikov (Deputy Director of the Russian Institute of Arctic and Antarctic Research) said,  adding that it would be recommissioned by Roscosmos, the State Corporation for Space Activities, is Russia’s space Agency, which manages the Country’s space industry, including space flights, cosmonautics, and aerospace research.  

“Roscosmos is present at practically every of our stations but Vostok. It is installing equipment to monitor Russian satellites and spacecraft. They need a spot in the Russkaya station’s area as when one of our satellites fly over there it’s not visible,” Klepikov said.
Russkaya is unique: “it is situated in a difficult-to-access coastal area in the Pacific sector of Antarctica, The window for getting to the Russkaya Station is three weeks, between February 15 and March 10. We did visit it in 2020, deliver some cargo, run some tests, and see what is inhabitable and what isn’t.  A seasonal team did land there in 2021 to put the Station into working order. Most importantly, we need to replace the diesel power unit and communication systems,” Klepikov said.

Polar explorers have identified a site for the construction of a new wintering complex at the Pole of Winds in Antarctica.  Specialists of the 70th Russian Antarctic Expedition of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, conducted technical studies to reconstruct the Russkaya Station and prepare it for year-round operation. Sites for the construction of a new wintering complex, science pavilions and an aircraft landing strip have been identified on the coast of Mary Byrd Land near Cape Berks.

To plan the construction of new facilities, a detailed analysis of the engineering, geological and climatic features of the area, energy and life support systems optimal for this area, taking into account logistical capabilities and safety requirements, was carried out. During their stay at the Russian Russkaya  Station, the scientists also completed a short-term research program. Including studies of the structure of the Antarctic slope front, the structure and circulation of waters in the shelf and the continental slope near the Russian station were conducted from the ship along the meridian of 138°30 °D.

Russkaya is the only Station on a stretch of coast stretching over one and a half thousand kilometers and one of the least studied areas of the Pacific sector of Antarctica. Polar explorers call this place the Pole of Winds, as the wind speed here reaches 75 m/s. February and March are the only months of the year,  when ice conditions and weather conditions allow ships to approach the Station and carry out scientific research.

“There are only about two hundred votes left to be the first “FAI Place of the Heart” in Friuli Venezia Giulia Region of Italy.
This hoped-for result would allow patrons to be involved in the renovation of the building that has never been finished. All citizens (especially students) are invited to share and consider voting for the Memorial by April 10, when the FAI Census expires” is the appeal of Prof. Julius Fabbri IV3CCT (pic aside).

FAI (https://fondoambiente.it/il-fai/mission/) is a non-profit foundation established in 1975, using the National Trust as a model, with the aim of protecting and enhancing Italy’s historical, artistic and landscape heritage.

Now, the request addressed to the Antarctic chasers, followers & lovers is to vote for it!
Just go to: https://fondoambiente.it/luoghi/mavi-memoriale-dell-antartide-valle-italia-cepparo-bove?ldc  and click on Vote with 1 click, that’s it!

The initiative promoted by Prof. Julius Fabbri IV3CCT (aka II3BOVE WAP-271), wants to be a stimulus to the delegation that the next 23 Jun – 3 Jul 2025, in Milan, Italy, will join the 47^th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and the 27^th Meeting of the Committee for Environmental Protection and discuss/approve the proposal of turning what remains of the Giacomo Bove Base  into a Historic site in Antarctica (HSM). (The pic aside, shows  Giacomo Bove Base at the time of its construcion-1976)

The National Memorial of Antarctica (MnA) hosts 9 flags: Argentina, Chile and England claiming territorial sovereignty. USA; Poland; Ecuador; Peru and Brazil for the Antarctic Specially Managed Area n.1 and Italy. Despite its international importance, it is abandoned, but your vote will revive it. The MnA was created by students together with their teacher of natural sciences in the high school at Cervignano del Friuli (UD) Italy, with the aim of being the starting point for designating what remains of the Giacomo Bove base in Antarctica, as Historic Site or Monument (HSM).

Inaugurated in 2018, the MnA is a scale 1:1 remote reconstruction (ex situ conservation) of the ruins of the first Italian Scientific Base built in 1976 by Cav. Renato Cèpparo in Valle Italia on the Antarctic Peninsula (a strategic location of naturalistic value) and named after Giacomo Bove an Italian explorer.

Inside the Memorial, located in the garden of the Malignani high school, there is an olive tree, a symbol of peace. The MnA was created thanks to the generous donation of stones by the entrepreneur Ermes Godeassi of Strassoldo-Italy. The exhibition panel was offered by CrediFriuli. Sponsors are: Giacomo Bove and Maranzana Cultural Association (AT); MIC Ministry; UNESCO Club of Udine, FAI of Trieste, Italian Geographic Society; CAI; CONI; Alpini (ANA), Sailors (ANMI); Civil Protection, Radio Amateurs (ARI); Municipality of Cervignano del Friuli (UD).

Objectives:
1) To sensitize diplomats to nominate it as historical site in Antarctica (HSM)
2) To transmit the values ​​of the FAI to young people
3) To reach 2501 votes to participate in the competition and recover the Memorial.
The MnA was presented in Switzerland at POLAR18 in Davos and at the Archaeological Museum of Naples as part of a national UNESCO competition which it won. Two (scale 1:50) models of the Giacomo Bove Base and the Memorial, are also hosted by a in Ushuaia Museum.
TNX Prof. PHd Julius Fabbri IV3CCT_II3BOVE

DP1POL is the callsign used by Felix DL5XL, an electronics engineer who is involved in the Antarctic campaigns since 2008. This year, Felix was again in Antarctica from 13-Jan-2025 to 22-Feb-2025, operating from the German Research Station “Neumayer III (WAP DEU-Ø8) at 70°40’South, 8°17’West, about 1,300 miles North of the South Pole.
Knowing the propagation openings, Felix DP1POL is on air (when works duties allow him to be at his shack),  at the right time, when conditions offer the best chance to the Hams who look for Antarctic QSOs.

After having worked DP1POL with the always pleasure to say “Hallo” to him, I was happy and pleasantly surprised to get in the mail after a little time, his QSL into a wonderful envelope cancelled at Rothera Station (WAP GBR-12). The envelope with such a nice special cachet and postmarks, will enter in a large collection of rare and similar ones, from every corner of Antarctica.
TNX Felix, DP1POL (DL5XL) for such a gift.

The complete log has been uploaded to Clublog and LotW, and printed cards are readily available through Felix’s QSL manager DL1ZBO.

Lawrence “Flo” Howell, now KL7L (Original licensee VP8ADE, aka VP8SB, VP0SB, VP0GB, GM4DMA), wrote some interesting notes that represent “a time gone by”, when Radio, especially in Antarctica represented much more than a simple pastime; not just a hobby, but a necessity, the only way to be in touch with the rest of the world.
The pride of having among the good memories of Ham Radio contacts, a 42 years old  QSO with VP8SB followed by a QSL  signed by Lawrence is not only a reason for pride, but something much more important, a world without barriers, a world of peace.

 

Lawrence shared this kind of touching memory with us at WAP, along with a significant photo… the end of a myth …!  We publish it in full:

«Sad news that after 46 years of operation VP8ADE fell silent key at 1230Z 21st Feb 2025»
In 1978, and just prior to my first deployment as Radio Operator to Antarctica, I was contacted by the RSGBs beacon coordinator – I was asked whether it would be possible to set up a 10m beacon in Antarctica, as at that time there was no other 28MHz beacon on the Continent and would add valuable data on 28MHz F2 propagation.
Subsequently with support of the British Antarctic Survey and the Falklands radio licensing section and radio hams in Surrey – the beacon was built and sent to the base by ice breaker – and installed it in a small wood hut shared by the old RCA NDB and I coded the diode matrix keyer as “VP8ADE ANTARC” on 28,2845MHz or so.

The antenna started off as a dipole at around 8m or so firing up the Atlantic and global coverage proved to be excellent.  The original aim was for the beacon to return with me at the end of my deployment in 1981, but with the support of the technical and operational staff it managed to stay on for a whole lot longer!  It was moved to “Bransfield House” loft and the antenna there was a ¼ wave vertical on the control tower walkway. With help from Tris Thorne MM0TJR, who replaced the keyer, and countless others over the next 40 plus years – the beacon was kept viable and provided great Fof2 data.
The future is a little unclear at the moment – the building that was new in 1979, is now being removed, but perhaps alternate technology and location may become available. In any case the end of new VP8 licenses for the British Antarctic Territory (BAT) is in sight, and its likely, but not yet certain, will be moved to a VP0 (Zero) format, similar to South Georgia/South Sandwich, with VP8 only being issued for the Falkland Islands.
Again, thanks to all those many “Rothera-ites” over the years who have helped to keep the beacon on air and on frequency.
73 Laurence “Flo Howell, (VP8SB, VP0SB, VP0GB), KL7L, GM4DMA, Original licensee VP8ADE
British Antarctic Survey 1978-1983, Transglobe Expedition 1979-82. Picture on the right,  shows Lawrence Flo Howell_Radio Officer at Rothera 1978-81

TNX Laurence “Flo Howell

Just a bit of clarification to answer some questions arose recently by WAP readers:
After the German reunification on Oct. 3, 1990 Georg Forster Station became WAP-DEU-Ø3 for a while.
For this reason, Y88POL and Y9ØANT after Oct. 3, 1990 are WAP DEU-Ø3, while before Oct. 3, 1990 these callsign were WAP DDR-Ø1 as Georg Forster Station did belong to the German Democratic Republic.
In addition, after the German reunification at Oct. 3, 1990 it was decided later that the further German Antarctic research activities would have been focused at Neumayer II Base (WAP DEU-Ø2) and its surroundings. So, in the years 1994, 1995 and 1996 the entire Georg Forster Station had been dismantled and disposed of.

A commemorative plaque was left at this place. The former Georg Forster Base was included into the ATS list of historic sites in Antarctica with No. 87.

List of all Antarctic historic sites: https://documents.ats.aq/recatt/att596_e.pdf

In the summer season 1987-1988 at Georg Forster Station of the German Democratic Republic in Antarctica, a completely new radio station was built. Georg Forster did get the marine Call Y3ZA and the land-based Call Y3G. The radio system was a very powerful and reliable: KSS-1300 with 1 KW, able to operate in CW, SSB and SITOR Telex, several EKD-500 receivers, an extremely good working 2x85m V-Beam, a corner reflector antenna, a diversity antenna, a vertical antenna and several wire antennas».

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HAM Radio activities from Georg Forster were:
1988-1989  Y88POL   (op: DL8JDX picture below)
1989-1991  Y90ANT  (op: DK1BT)
1990-1992  Y88POL   (op: DL8JDX)

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The Georg Forster Base had 5 overwintering teams:
Antarctic Expedition (AE) 1987-1989 with 8 members (including Volker, DL8JDX, as electronic engineer)
AE 1988-1990 with 8 members
AE 1989-1991 with 8 members
AE 1990-1992 with 4 members (including Volker, DL8JDX, as electronic engineer, radio officer and post officer)
AE 1991-1993 with 1 member

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TNX Volker, DL8JDX

François Bergez F8DVD has never missed a single Antarctic Activity Week since the very first editions more than 20 years ago, each time using a brand new callsign and a related new WAP reference!  

On last AAW (February 2025) François did sign TM22AAW, reference WAP-354.
François has just informed that the QSL for this year’s WAP special event will be posted soon to those who applied QSL direct.

Picture on the card, shows the Chilean Gonzales Videla Base (WAP CHL-Ø6), a rare Antarctic summer Research Station on the Antarctic mainland at Waterboat Point in Paradise Bay at 64°49′ South, 62°51′ West. The station was active from 1951-58, and was reopened briefly in the early 1980s.
TNX François, F8DVD

Chile’s Gabriel Gonzales Videla Base on the Antarctic Peninsula, has been last activated on febr. 2009 by F5PFP signing CE9XX

WAP‘s good friend Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov has sent an abstract of his last experience on the South Shetlands Islands where he has been involved among the Bulgarian Scientific Expedition of last Jan-Febr.2025.
In connection with the interest of Bulgarian geologists and other scientists in the possibilities of field work on Smith Island in the South Shetland Islands, during the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition on January 10 and February 12, 2025, preliminary surveys were carried out by the naval Research/Survey Vessel RSV 421 under the command of Navy Commander Radko Muevski on the southeastern side of the island (mostly remotely) and more thoroughly in the area of Cape Smith at the northeastern end of the island. Of particular interest is the identification of accessible ice-free areas with disembarkation from the ship by Zodiac boats. After analyzing the collected data about the vicinity, including the results of a detailed photographic recording, a convenient route from a landing site on the shore to an ice-free locality of elevation 90 m could be successfully identified. The relevant locality is situated on the isthmus connecting Cape Smith with the rest of the island, a place suitable for a Bulgarian refuge and a starting point for the main ridge of the island’s Imeon Range towards the peaks of Matochina and Mount Christi, as well as for the possible deployment of Bulgarian scientific equipment.

Due to the notorious inaccessibility of the island, the opportunities for field work and scientific research are extremely limited. During the first geological survey of the island in Glozhene Cove area, 15 kg of rock samples were taken for geochemical analysis in laboratories, and a metal plaque for the Bulgarian geological studies of the island’s rocks was placed by Prof. Christo Pimpirev, doyen of the Bulgarian Antarctic science.

Thanks and credit Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov

 

The wok the Bulgarian Team did on Smith Island sounds great with a good perspective in the near future!
Smith Island is 20 miles (32 km) long and 5 miles (8 kilometers) wide, lying 49 miles (79 km) west of Deception Island in the South Shetland Islands of the British Antarctic Territory.

Bulgaria seems to be going to set a Refuge on Cape Smith at 62°52’44” South, 62°19’13” West.
WAP hopes that, next year they can carry on a Radioamateur among the scientific Team!

Smith Island and of course the New Bulgarian Refuge on it, will be a brand “New One” for the entire Ham Radio world, as well as a Ham radio operation from onboard of the Research/Survey Vessel RSV 421!

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Let us not forget that last 2 activity on Ham radio bands by Bulgarian Ham radio operators were on 1995 (by LZØA) and on 2006 (by VP8/LZ1UQ) WAP BUL-Ø1 from St. Kliment Ohridski Base!

WAP Bulletin nr.307 of march 9th, 2025 has been issued.
Readers and hunters can check last information about HF activities from Antarctica and sub Antarctic areas .
Bulletin #307 is available to download at “News and Information” from the homepage: https://www.waponline.it/articles/news-information/
 or by clicking at: https://www.waponline.it/wap-antarctic-bulletins/

or directly at: https://www.waponline.it/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/WAP-Bull_307.pdf 

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TNX Max IK1GPG & Betty IK1QFM  

The Australian 2024-2025 Team, with the support of a tractor-traverse convoy, have set up their drilling camp at Dome C North, about 1200 km from Casey Station (WAP AUS-Ø2).
Australia’s Million Year Ice Core project at Dome C North in Antarctica (WAP AUS-NEW) is a recent set Aussie drilling site.

In December 2024, a 642-tonne convoy set out from Casey Station to make the overland traverse. They arrived at Dome C North, the new drilling site, 18 days later on Christmas Eve, and were subsequently treated to a Christmas party hosted by the French and Italians at nearby Concordia station (WAP MNB-Ø3).
MYIC stands for Million Year Ice Core Antarctica.

The scientific and drilling team flew into Concordia on New Year’s Eve. In the fortnight following, they erected a permanent drill shelter, a 27-metre-long structure that will stand for the next five years, housing a drill more than 8 meters long and withstanding temperatures as low as -80C.
Dome C North (DCN) at 75°02’32” South, 123°37’52” East, is located nearly 50 km to the Multinational Concordia Station (WAP MNB-Ø3)  and only  9 kilometers away the Little Dome C-Beyond Epica (LDC) WAP MNB-15. 

Over the next 4-5 drilling seasons, they’ll strive to reach ice 3000 meter’s down, containing the most detailed continuous record of how the Earth’s atmospheric composition and climate have changed over centuries.

Danilo IAØ/IZ1KHY had the chance to visit the Australia’s “Dome C North Camp”, 50 Km from Concordia … but no radio…. just a courtesy visit after the invitation of the DCN manager who had in turn been invited by Danilo to LDC for a pizza!
4-5 drilling seasons, will mean 4-5 years, the hope is that one Radio operator could be active from there one year or another!

Read more about MYIC-DCN, Dome C North at: https://www.antarctica.gov.au/news/2025/australias-search-for-antarcticas-oldest-ice/ 
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At the light of the evidence shown, MYIC-DCN, Dome C North, at 75°02’32” South, 123°37’52” East, on the East Antarctic Plateau, will enter on WAP WADA Directory as WAP AUS-NEW.
TNX Danilo IZ1KHY & Credit to Australia Antarctica gov.

Our friend Paolo Corsetti, IK3GER, issues a free Antarctic Certificate called WAB to Hams who prove evidence of having worked the required number of Bases in the Icy Continent, starting Jan. 1^st 1985. (Check https://www.ik3ger.it/) 
The Award is issued in two Classes: Basic and First Class.   The “WORKED ANTARCTIC BASES“ award,  is issued to OM/SWL for contacts (verified by QSL, eQsl, LOTW) with the required number of Antarctic bases as indicated below.

BASIC AWARD
One QSO with a station operating any band/any mode from a Base located on the main Antarctic territory only. 
NB: stations located on Antarctica’s surrounding islands like the Falklands, King George Island, South Georgia, South Orkneys, South Shetlands etc., do not count for this award.

FIRST CLASS AWARD (shown above)
QSO with minimum three stations (or even more) operating any band/any mode from different Bases located on the main Antarctic territory only. 
NB: stations located on Antarctica’s surrounding islands like the Falklands, King George Island, South Georgia, South Orkneys, South Shetlands etc., do not count towards this award. 
QSL cards must be in the hand of the applicant. LOTW and eQsl are accepted.
QSO/HRD validity: 1.1.1985. Endorsements available for band and mode.

The award is free and will be sent via email as a PDF file (JPG on request).

Just list the Stations you have worked (minimum 3 or even more) on an Ex-cell table (see example aside) and forward your application by mail, to the award manager IK3GER Paolo, at corsetti.paolo@libero.it

TNX Paolo IK3GER
Check for other Cerificates: https://www.waponline.it/worldwide-antarctic-awards/
and   https://www.waponline.it/worldwide-antarctic-awards/italy/

Everybody recognize that DAØANT was one of the most active stations during the 22nd Antarctic Activity Week. Congratulation to the whole Team! To increase the interest around this activity, Karsten, DL1RUN did create his own small diploma, available at  DL1RUN’s own website: https://hamaward.de.
At https://hamaward.de/2025-aaw-en/ , everyone can download his QSL.
The 22nd Antarctic Activity Week did take place from February 17 to 23, 2025. On this occasion, the Club station DAØANT has been on the bands every day. As a thank you for the activity of the calling stations, the local association Mittweida (S-44) of the DARC e.V. will issue a FREE activity diploma. For this diploma, connections on 3 different bands and modes (CW, Phone, Digital) are required within the activity period from February 17 to 23, 2025. The awards are free of charge and can only be downloaded via this website until 2025-12-31.

WAP did receive a mail from Karsten, DL1RUN:
«Greetings from the entire DAØANT Team. It was a lot of fun for everyone. We want to be back at the AAW next year. All operators did upload regularly their QSO data to the website. This means that the data for the online diploma is available very quickly. We also offer the possibility to download the QSL card (dQSL) as well.
Next year we will also be able to offer this for the other stations. However, the prerequisite is that all stations want this and regularly upload the QSO data to the website. This will then be done in the same way as for the past 6ØANT event.
You are welcome to ask the AAW 2025 operators whether they would be willing to take part in the campaign online next year.  However, it will only work if all OPs upload the data to the website.
You can see an example at: https://hamaward.de/2025-aaw-en/  You can use my call DL1RUN for testing. I have not yet fulfilled the diploma requirements. Volker, DL8JDX has fulfilled the conditions and can download the diploma. I am already looking forward to the feedback.
73 from Karsten, DL1RUN

The awards and QSLs are free of charge and can only be downloaded via DL1RUN’s website until 2025-12-31.

TNX Karsten, DL1RUN & Volker, DL8JDX

Today, February 22^nd Argentina celebrates the “Argentine Antarctica Day”

Argentina administers thirteen bases, six of which are permanent (operational all year round) and the rest are temporary (operational only in summer). Of these, two are administered directly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Carlini (permanent, formerly Jubany base) WAP ARG-2Ø and Brown (temporary) WAP ARG-Ø2.

The other bases are administered by the Joint Antarctic Command (Ministry of Defense). These are Orcadas Base (WAP ARG-15), Marambio Base (WAP ARG-21), Esperanza Base (WAP ARG-Ø4), San Martín Base (WAP ARG-Ø8) and Belgrano II Base (permanent)(WAP ARG-Ø6); and the temporary bases Melchior (WAP ARG-13), Decepción (WAP ARG-12), Cámara (WAP ARG-16), Primavera (WAP ARG-Ø9), Petrel (WAP ARG-17) and Matienzo (WAP ARG-Ø1).

 

Not to forget that, 22 years ago, WAP (Worldwide Antarctic Program) did launch (on the 3^rd week of February) when Febr. 22 falls in it, the Antarctic Activity Week to celebrate the Antarctic Continent as a land of research, science and PEACE.

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The 22^nd AAW  starded last Febr. 17th, ends on Febr. 23rd.
Years ago, Stations from Antarctica, uses to be on air, to share with WW Hams community this important event … unfortunately, this healthy and intelligent practice, disappeared with the advance of the satellite era.
Today, very few Bases in Antarctica use to be on air at this date!

At the beginning of the 22^nd Antarctic Activity Week (Febr.17-2025), Argentina did celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the inauguration of the Almirante Brown Scientific Station (WAP ARG-Ø2).

On February 17, 1965, the “Instituto Antartico Argentino” did open thhe Almirante Brown Scientific Station, formerly a Naval Detachment. Since its reopening as a permanent Scientific Station of the Argentine Antarctic Institute, until its partial destruction by a fire in 1984, Base Brown was Argentina’s most prominent scientific station in Antarctica. Studies were carried out in biology (zoology and botany), biochemistry, human and animal physiology, pathology, bacteriology, meteorology, auroras, nuclear radiation (environmental), glaciology, oceanography and ecology.

Currently, summer Antarctic campaigns are carried out there and scientific work is concentrated in the areas of oceanography and biology, particularly penguins and fish.

Almirante Brown Station is located in Paradise Bay, on the West coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most beautiful places in Antarctica, with intense tourist activity in the summers.

The Base has his own Radio shack (see pic aside), but unfortunately is not used!
We especially greet those who, at some point inhabited this very special places as well as we thank Mehdi F5PFP who was the last one to activate this rare one on last march 1^st 2009.

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Other calls active from Almirante Brown (WAP ARG-Ø2) from 1970 through 2009 have been: LU1ZB, LU1ZE, VP8DJK, LU/FT5YJ & LU/FT5YK.

In the occurrence of the 22^nd WAP’s Antarctic Activity Week (17-23 Febr.2025), the Ukrainian Radio Club, through their Antarctic veterans, propose the “Terra Australis Incognita Award”, available for free to the WW Radio amateurs who are joining the 22^nd AAW.

This is an Award dedicated to all the Researchers in Antarctica, and it’s issued with the support of the Ukrainian Radio Clubs: UADXC, DELTA CLUB, RIVNE DX CLUB, UFF (Ukrainian Flora Fauna).

Terra Australis Incognita, is available to Hams that have made contacts any bands any modes with Special Callsign’s Radio stations, in the days of WAP Antarctic Activity Week as well as stations that did operate from Antarctica or did work and wintered in Antarctica at any of the Research Stations, Marine and seasonal expedition and/or on board of research vessels and aircraft.

To apply for the Award is necessary to have made at least:
1 QSO with Amateur radio stations in Antarctica
1 QSO with Special stations that operate in AAWs (Antarctic Activity Weeks) of the WAP (Worldwide Antarctic Program)
2 QSO with Amateur radio all over the world who have worked in the past and/or wintered in Antarctica in a Research stations, marine and seasonal expedition and/or on board of Research vessels and aircraft. Contacts have to be made starting 01.01.2014, any bands, any modes; same rules are also valid for SWLs. The award is available in electronic form. Just send your request in the form of a Log extract, to the Award Manager Pavlo UT1KY: e-mail: ut1ky@ukr.net

See all the Antarctic Awards available by Ukraina at: https://www.waponline.it/worldwide-antarctic-awards/ukraina/ 

TNX Pavlo UT1KY

For many years, WAP did try to understand the exact place where Delfin M. Val (EA4BOD) was active from, during the Scientific Spanish Expedition called “Antartida 9101 IEO”. Nobody so far has been able to confirm where, in which part of the South Orkney he was operating from!

For sure, Delfin, who did sign EDØBOD in January 1991 did operate from Laurie Island in the South Orkneys as generically reported on his QSL, but our question was:  Where exactly?

I met EA4BOD (now SK) in Torremolinos Spain in 1994; I was so excited to be close to a famous person who had aroused my admiration from the very first moment, that it didn’t even cross my mind to ask him for more details of his Antarctic journey when he worked there with a scientific research team.!

Delfin EA4BOD, had an interesting life; in 1937 he was taken from an orphanage to the Soviet Union where he went to school, grew up, got married, had children, and stayed till 1975 when he returned to Spain. Being a skilled technician Delfin has written several publications on the field of HF radio transmission and on the theory of antennas and their practical construction. See: https://www.urvag.com/phocadownloadpap/EA4BOD_Calculo_instalacion_antenas.pdf

Well, Laurie Island is the site of the Argentinean Base “Orcadas” (WAP ARG-15) which coordinates reported on the card are 60° 45’South, 44° 43’ West; this is a permanent Scientific Base on Laurie Island; maybe EDØBOD could have operate from there but one of the QSLs found recently (see below) reports different coordinates: 60°45’South, 44° 40’ West

Different coordinates, 44°45’West (Base Naval Orcadas-Argentina), versus 44°40’West, reported on EDØBOD mean different locations!

Luckily, we have a great friend, a real expert of these island; I’m talking about a famous character, Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov who I reached when he was in Antarctica involved in a research mission.

Question put to Prof. Ivanov:
We did work several stations in Antarctica; two of them taken as example, did operate from Laurie Island: One is LU1ZA Base Orcadas, the other one is a Spanish operation dated 1991; EDØBOD reported to be at 60° 45’ South, 44°40’West.

As cartographer, You are an expert of Laurie island and perhaps you could have better information about the exact location where the Spanish expedition did operate from. Hope you can find what I haven’t been able to find so far…!

Prof. Ivanov replyed: We are restricted to dealing with just degrees and minutes, no seconds. Then the coordinates of Argentinean Orcadas Base would be 60°44’S, 44°44’W. As for the reported EDØBOD point coordinates 60°45’South, 44°40’West, the nearest named geographic feature would be Point Moreno at 60°45’S 44°41’W. So, my guess is that the Spanish QSL card refers to Point Moreno if not erroneously referring to some other nearby location or Orcadas Base itself.
Best, Lyubo

If Delfin had been at the Argentine Orcadas base he would have been used EA4BOD/LU or LU/ED4DOD or LU/EDØBOD, but it wasn’t like that! So, at the light of the above information, WAP confirms what we have stated 34 years ago; EDØBOD is Orcadas Camp Base, WAP ESP-Ø3, unless other more precise information eventually coming!

WAP has received a Video, taken at a recent Antarctic happening in the city of Rvine-Ukraina. We are pleased to share it, given that Antarctica, designated as Continent of peace and cooperation, reflects the spirit that aims the Worldwide Antarctic Program  as well.

The event “Ukraine in Antarctica: Research and Indomitability” held in Rivne, saw the participation of several students, teachers and families, with a remote connection to the Polar Researchers from the Akademik Vernadsky Station (WAP UKR-Ø1), telling the audience about the difficulties they encountered during their expeditions, their daily lives, and in general, how is life in Antarctica.

Watching the video,  at min.1,13, we can see Yurii Otruba, Vernadsky Base Leader on the 25^th and 29^th Antarctic expedition at the Vernadsky Research Base, at min. 2,16 Pavlo UT1KY.

At min.3,19, the three guests: UT1KY, the Co-leader , and Yurii Otruba, Akademik Vernadsky Base Leader.

On last March 11^th 2024, the 29th Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition left Kyiv aiming to the Akademik Vernadskyi Station. Most of the team are newcomers (ten people), but they are led by one of the most experienced polar explorers in Ukraine, geophysicist Yurii Otruba. For him, this has been his eighth wintering. Unfortunately, no Ham radio operators among the Ukrainian Team this time!
TNX Pavlo UT1KY

Also for the 2025 edition of the Antarctic Activity Week, our good friend Paolo Corsetti, IK3GER from Venice-Italy has set the 2025’s  “CALLING ANTARCTICA“ certificate available  at:  https://www.ik3ger.it/awards-page1.html

Just very simple rules shown below (Click on the link). Read how to apply for it. Everyone can get the 22^nd edition of this Diploma for free.
TNX Paolo IK3GER

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The Certificate (from Feb. 1st 2025) is already online, at Paolo’s website:  See the bottom of the page.
Clik on the flag: Italian or English to get the rules in both languages

WAP Antarctic bulletin nr. 306 is online at: https://www.waponline.it/wap-antarctic-bulletins/

On the same page, readers can take a look of the bulletins issued in the last 10 past year.
Those who eventually wish to get more, just drop a mail to Max IK1GPG (wap_info@virgilio.it).


Just a curious note: 1st WAP bulletin has been released 34 years ago (Feb. 10^th 1991) !

 Ejnoy Antarctica as much as we do!

Since Wednesday, January 15, a fire has continued to ravage part of Amsterdam Island, a district of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF). The fire, initially declared near the scientific buildings of Pointe Bénédicte, quickly spread to the vegetation, directly threatening the Martin-de-Viviès Base (WAP FRA-Ø3), located 2.5 km away.

No information is available at this stage on the origin of the fire, as this question is not an immediate priority.  The fire came dangerously close to the Base during the day on January 16. Although the buildings have been spared at this stage, the surrounding vegetation is severely affected. Several critical infrastructures were damaged, including pipes, the fire main and the power supply to the water treatment systems. This fire also threatens major scientific facilities. Located on Pointe Bénédicte, the Research Station monitors background air pollution, greenhouse gases and aerosols, which are crucial for the IPCC’s work. Pictures Credit to:  Rémi Chazot

Now, it seems that emegerncy is gone an 31 people of the personnel at the Base safe and well recovered.

Thanks and credit to:  https://taaf.fr/actualite/nouvelle-mise-a-jour-sur-lincendie-en-cours-sur-lile-amsterdam/ 

We are happy to receive greetings for the New Year by our good WAP friend Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov who is actually in Antarctica, on board of the Bulgarian naval ship RSV 421, preparing (weather permitting) for a research mission on the forbidding Smith Island.

Smith island doesn’t host research stations or camps, and is seldom visited by scientists or mountaineers. Its interior is entirely occupied by the Imeon Range, rising to 2,025 m (6,644 ft) (Mount Foster). The first detailed topographic mapping of the island was made by the “Antarctic Place-names Commission” and the Military Geographic Service of the Bulgarian Army and published in 2009 in both English and Bulgarian.

See the very accurate map at: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Livingston-Island-Map-2010.jpg  

Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov (pic aside) of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (born 7 October 1952 in Sofia) is a Bulgarian scientist, and Antarctic explorer. He is a graduate of the St. Kliment Ohridski University of Sofia with M.S. degree in mathematics in 1977. He earned his PhD from Sofia University in 1980, under the direction of Dimiter Skordev with a dissertation titled Iterative Operative Spaces, and was the 1987 winner of Acad. Nikola Obreshkov Prize, the highest Bulgarian award in mathematics. Initiator and participant in Bulgarian mapping and place naming (some 400 Bulgarian names) in Antarctica.

Expert on geographic names, Standing Committee on Antarctic Geographic Information of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) since 2006.
Topographic surveys and mapping in four Bulgarian Antarctic expeditions during the 1994/95, 1995/96, 2002/03, and 2004/05 austral summers.

Ivanov has taken part in several Antarctic expeditions. In 2004, Ivanov went with Doychin Vasilev on the Tangra 2004 topographic expedition, noted by Discovery Channel, the Natural History Museum, the Royal Collection and the British Antarctic Survey as a timeline event in Antarctic exploration.[12][13][14] Awarded the jubilee medal 30th Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition by the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute for his active participation in the expeditions and in the building of St. Kliment Ohridski Polar Base.

If the readers wish to look the list of the so many books and publications by Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov, check here: http://www.math.bas.bg/logic/ivanovll/Lyubomir-Ivanov.html 

TNX Prof. Lyubomir Ivanov

Let’s hope one day, when in Antarctica, our friend Lyubo can involve some Hamradio operator to join him and maybe activate the last Bulgarian rare spot: Camp Academia (WAP BUL-New) listed on WAP WADA-Directory.

WAP has recently received by our fiend Pedro Sarli, LU1JHF some fresh information and updates on the Argentinean Antarctic & Sub Antarctic Light Houses.

Pedro wrote: «I was looking the Antarctic Lighthouses file in WAP Online website, and now I’m sending an Excel file with new information about the Argentinian LHs (ARLHS Reference Number, Admiralty Number, NGIA Number, SHN Number, etc.)».

In addition, Pedro sent few QSL cards of some LHs Ham radio activity of years ago which are going to increase WAP archive.

While we thank Pedro LU1JHF for his always precious help, we want to say that all the new entries provided by Pedro will be included as soon as possible in the updated list of the Antarctic & Sub Antarctic Light House Directory at https://www.waponline.it/wap-antarctic-sub-antarctic-light-house-directory/
Thanks to Pedro Sarli, LU1JHF

 

François Bergez, F8DVD  will be active as TM22AAW (WAP-354) to celebrate the 22nd Antarctic Activity Week (A.A.W.) on 2 and 3 February and from 8 to 20 February 2025.

Activity will take place at from Mâcon,  Frank’s QTH in East part of France, 60 km North of Lyon (Locator JN26JH).

Frank will use his Icom 7600, Acom A2100, Antenna 8 elements Log for 10 to 20m and rotative dipole for 30 and 40m

QSL card is OK via Buro or Direct (with 1 SASE + 1 new IRC or 3 USD) to F8DVD (address on QRZ.com).  QSL’s received via bureau will be answered in the same way. Qso will be uploaded to LOTW.
TNX François F8DVD-TM22AAW

Congrats to Frank who have never missed to be on air since the very first editions of the Antarctic Activity Week!
Check: https://www.waponline.it/antarctic-activity-week/aaw-2025/   

Thanks to Oleg Sakharov (UA1O, R1ANF, ZS7ANF) WAP has  now a better understand of the fact that, as thought, Dixi’s Camp and Fuel Depot 83 are for sure, two separate entities, located at different latitude and longitude.

Opened in 2019, Dixie is a new Camp made by White Desert Company, at about 10-15 km from the existing FD-83 (Fuel Depot at 83° South).

Dixie’s Camp (WAP MNB-NEW) is an isolated research station surrounded by the vast, icy expanse of the South Pole. Actually Dixie is a Camp for turists  who visit South Pole  and a refueling station for aircrafts.  It has been designed to give the guests the opportunity to experience just what life was like for the original polar explorers, almost a Century ago.

Situated some 750km from the nearest humans, at an altitude of 2.640 mts   and located exactly at 83° 24’ 5,56” South, 19° 41’ 52,8” East, the sun never sets on this  Expedition Camp during season, making it a surreal outpost in the centre of the Great White Continent.
Named after renowned explorer Dixie Dansercoer, this remote camp is one of the harshest environments on Earth.  Dixie’s Camp is so remote, that their nearest neighbor is the International Space Station (ISS) orbiting over 400km overhead!
Dixie’s Camp could also provide a base for interdisciplinary research, including glaciology, climate science, and polar ecology. Researchers and scientists from around the globe, could converge here to study the unique ecosystems, ice formations, and atmospheric conditions of the South Pole, contributing valuable insights into our understanding of climate change and the delicate balance of the polar regions.

Despite its remote location, Dixie’s Camp, equipped with cutting-edge technology and sustainable infrastructure, exemplifies human perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge in challenging, unspoiled environments. (Pics aside show the Camp to the Left and a BT67 to the Right at Dixie’s Camp).

FD83 (WAP MNB-Ø9) was made by ALCI in 2007-2008, and even if activated already, it remains a rare “New One” for the majority of the Antarctic Chasers. It still exists and it is used by “Ultima Antarctic Logistics” (EX ALCI).
Oleg Sakharov (UA1O, R1ANF, ZS7ANF) was the only one active from FD83 on last 2019 as RI1ANX
TNX Oleg Sakharov  ZS7ANF 

 

The Czech Republic is one of the Countries which has historically carried out significant scientific research in Antarctica, enjoyed an international recognition, and since 2006 has had its own research polar station. The Research Station Johann Gregor Mendel has been built between 2004 and 2006 at 63°48’16” South, 57°53’08” West on the remote James Ross Island in Antarctica, by the Masaryk University in the years 2005–2006, to serve as a base for the Antarctic research of the Faculty of Science, as well as other national and international academic institutions. The plans for setting up a Czech base in the Antarctic go back to the 1990s, when the necessary legal, logistical and later constructional preparations began. The station was completed on 4 March 2006 and it was commissioned during the following research season on 22 February 2007. It was given the name Mendel Polar Station after Johann Gregor Mendel, whose 200th anniversary of birth is commemorated worldwide this year.

 

On Jan 2025, a total of twenty-two members, seven women and fifteen men, are participating in the actual Masaryk University expedition to Antarctica. The bulk of the expedition, consisting of fourteen people, did set off on New Year’s Eve. This main group will depart from Vienna Airport for Argentina, from where they will be transferred by a special vehicle of the Argentine Air Force via Marambio Base (WAP ARG-21) on Seymour Island to the station on James Ross Island. This part of the expedition, led by Peter Vácz from the Institute of Geography and the Institute of Experimental Biology of the Faculty of Science of the Masaryk University, consists of scientists of Israeli, Italian and Slovak nationality, among others, not only from Masaryk University, but also from the Czech Technical University in Prague, as well as a doctor and three technicians who ensure the functioning of the infrastructure of this unique, southernmost Czech university workplace.

The second part of the expedition, consisting of eight members, who will then set off on Saturday, January 11, 2025 via Chile to the CZ-ECO Nelson Base on Nelson Island (WAP CZE-Ø1)

TNX and credit to: https://www.em.muni.cz/udalosti/17804-do-antarktidy-opet-miri-dva-tymy-z-masarykovy-univerzity

While CZ-Eco Nelson Base  (WAP CZE-Ø1) has been activated in 2004 by OLØANT and from R1ANF/p on 2006,  Johann Gregor Mendel is a brand “New One”, never activated on HF by Radioamateurs so far.

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The Worldwide Antarctic Chasers of the Ham Radio community is still hopeful that one day or another some Czech operators can put this rare Base up on the air!

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WAP … where else,  to get connected with Antarctica?

The 24th edition of WAP-WACA and WAP-WADA Directories  (Release 1.45 of Jan. 1st-2025) have been issued and are now free on line, available to download.
Check: https://www.waponline.it/wap-awards_download-rules/wap-wada__wap-waca_directories/
Both Directories,  contain last “New Entry” and few changes on the names of Bases, Huts, refuges  or Camps.

In the next days the full documentation, such as WAP Awards issued, rules, ranking and all what a chaser need to know,  will be on line as well. 

Good hunting,

Enjoy Antarctica as much as we do!

To our friends all over the world, Hams, supporters and followers, to the personnel  engaged in various scientific missions in remote Bases and Camps, to the Antarctic and Artic lovers,  WAP Staff wish a PEACEFUL Christmas in the spirit of a real and sincere friendship.

                                    Enjoy Antarctica as much as we do!   

      

 

Danilo has moved the mast and antenna away from the two big generators that serve LDC Camp, but he had to stop; temp is -46°C he’s afraid that coax cable or dipole wires could break. In any case, changing the position and built a new dipole for 20 mts, appears to work OK  now;  SWR 1,2 at 14250 and 100 W output, even if the background noise still over S5 to S7. RTX has only 100 W but seems to be enough. Danilo was 44 here again when we tested conditions. He sent an audio recording and 1HYW was 55 with him, fully comprehensible (Audio recording below).

Nothing today, there was noise and even if he did copy me and others trying to test, there was no chance! Local time at Little Dome C-Epica camp is 7 hours ahead … at 18:00 Z, is 2 o’clok in the morning down there!

We should try again in the next few days testing up and down maybe also the Long Path in early morning GMT, to see what time is better. Same fading has been experienced as well by Oleg ZS7ANF on dec. 18^th on his second try from Echo Camp; band was completely faded.

Danilo is now at Concordia Station for some work on the Delta Loop antenna down there.

More info to follow,  stay tuned

 

Oleg Sakharov ZS1ANF, UA1O (ex UA1PBA), has been shortly active at Echo Camp a brand “NEW ONE” signing ZS7ANF on last Dec. 15-2024 on 15, 17 & 20 mts.

Oleg did test different bands with I1HYW before choosing 15 mts to start at 14,33 UTC on 21.035 CW.

On last November 26th, we put an article on WAP website (see: https://www.waponline.it/echo-camp-wap-mnb-new/ )  regarding Echo Camp as WAP MNB-NEW;  we are now pleased to say that Oleg did it well and reached the goal!

Stuart McFadzean, VK7FADZ  a skilled SOTA activator in Tasmania where he lives, was also there, and did help Oleg with the shack installation, so thanks as well to Stuart  for the fast and great job, so well done!

Oleg said that, tomorrow, dec. 18th there will be another possibility to be on air from Echo Camp, then he will fly out to Cape Town for 2 weeks holidays on dec. 22, Oleg will be back in Antarctica on  Jan.2025.

While wishing Oleg our congrats and bif thanks for the brand “New One”,  WAP has issued the reference WAP-MNB-2Ø to Echo Camp at 71°32’47” South, 8°50’11” East.

On the Antarctic exploration’s history, we have learned that, several Huts, Refuges, and also Bases have been built with scientific purpose by Countries that before and/or after did claimed sovereignty.
Today,  the Antarctic passionates of the Icy Continent are chasing some of the old sites which can potentially be “New Ones” for the most popular Antarctic Awards and challenges.

Today we are going to know something of one of this:  Station “C” Sandefjord Bay, (WAP GBR-NEW).
Located at 60° 37′ South, 46° 02′ West, Moreton Point, Sandefjord Bay, Coronation Island, South Orkney Islands.  

In 1944, the original intention had been to establish a Station in the South Orkney Islands on Signy Island, but this was not achieved. Instead, a Hut was built 19 Feb 1945 at Sandefjord Bay, although there were insufficient personnel to occupy it. This has since been referred to as Station P, although there is no evidence for this in the official records. Today, only debris remains. Last seen standing 6 Sep 1950. Collapsed (possibly blown down) by 1 Feb 1955.

The original purpose, was replaced by a new Hut at Cape Geddes, Laurie Island 62° 59’South, 60° 34’ West, South Orkney, which became known as Station “C” in 1946 (WAP GBR-Ø3).

Picture above, shows the Hut at Sandefjord Bay, 1947-48. (Photographer: Sir Vivian Fuchs; Archives ref: AD6/19/2/E1022/24). Thanks and Credit to British Antarctic Survey : (https://www.bas.ac.uk/about/about-bas/history/british-research-stations-and-refuges/sandefjord-bay-c/)

On WAP WADA Directory we have though two Stations  “C”:
1) WAP GBR- Ø3, Station “C” Cape Geddes (Aka Station “C” Laurie), 62° 59’South, 60° 34’ West

3) WAP GBR-NEW, Station “C” Sandefjord Bay on Coronation Island, 60° 37′ South, 46° 02′ West

Antarctic Base Belgrano II (WAP ARG-Ø6) is the southernmost Argentine Station, on the southern coast of the Weddell Sea. Over there, the army did install a new Refuge (originally called Refugio Base Belgrano 2), of which WAP reported about on last December 28, 2023 (See: https://www.waponline.it/two-small-argentine-refuge-huts-in-antarctica/ )
Now, the Refugio Base Belgrano 2,  located 7.3 km from the Base and near the snow landing strip, has been named in honor of “Dr. René Favaloro”.  This mobile Refuge (77°   52’ 30” South, 34°37’45” West)will provide support in future operations under extreme conditions.

The new Dr. René Favaloro Refuge, installed in the area under ​​responsibility of the Base Belgrano II, represents a significant milestone in the scientific and sovereign presence of Argentina  on the white continent.

Named after Doctor René Favaloro, this state of the art shelter, located on a Nunatak, will not only operate as a logistical support point, but will also provide a safe and well-stocked shelter for up to 4 explorers. The installation of the Refuge involves a great effort on part of the base’s staff, the military personnel combine determination and dedication to carry out this mission, reflecting a deep sense of commitment to the Homeland and the desire to lead the way for future scientific expeditions in the region.

On next issue of the WAP -WADA Directory, Dr. René Favaloro Refuge will enter on the Argentina list as WAP ARG-NEW

Who was Dr. René Favaloro?
The greatest doctor in Argentine history, was Italian: René Favaloro invented the bypass while fighting against dictatorships.

Son of Italian immigrants, René grew up with his grandparents at home, learning Italian, Italian cuisine, Italian music, but above all learning the great manual skills that would accompany him in his medical career, thanks to his father, a carpenter, and his mother, a seamstress: “A good doctor must be a good carpenter.” his grandfather Girolamo would repeat to him. René studied and graduated with honors from the Colegio Nacional Universidad de La Plata. In 1962, one of his elderly university professors encouraged his transfer to the United States, to the Cleveland Clinic, still today one of the most renowned in the world for cardiac surgery. During his intense activity as a specialist, he continued his studies and refined the technique that would lead him to be, in 1967, the first heart surgeon in history to implant the coronary artery bypass, for which – among hundreds of other honors – he would receive a nomination for the Nobel Prize. In 1970, giving up offers of up to 2 million dollars a year to stay in the United States, he returned to Buenos Aires to realize his greatest dream: to create the Favaloro Foundation, a self-sufficient university clinic available to the people, still today the most renowned in South America.
Active member of the committees for the search for the desaparecidos, in aid and support of the families of the thousands of disappeared during the bloody dictatorship from 1976 to 1983, his philanthropy was put to the test by the political and economic climate of Argentina, which over the years ended up suffocating the Foundation between cuts in public and private funding, missed payments by organizations, unions, insurance companies and a growing economic depression in the country. On his knees due to debts that forced him to get rid of all his personal property, abandoned and betrayed by many friends, on July 29, 2000 he took his own life with a gunshot to the heart.

Lt. Danilo Collino, IZ1KHY  (pic aside) is the actual ENEA, Camp Leader at Little Dome C (LDC) Epica Camp, located at   75.29917 ° South, 122.44516 ° East,  37,5 km from Concordia station (WAP MNB-Ø3).

EPICA (European Project for Ice Coring in Antarctica) – Oldest Ice, has been funded by the European Commission, with contributions from the participating Nations, the project, which began in 2019 will last for seven years. Twelve Research Centers are partners in the project, from ten European and non-European countries. For Italy, in addition to the CNR and Ca’ Foscari University, the National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), is working together with the French Polar Institute (IPEV) on the work module relating to logistics.

See more at: https://www.beyondepica.eu/en/campaigns/field-campaigns/field-diaries-202425/november-2024/17-november/

Little Dome C-Epica Camp, WAP MNB-15 is one of the most wanted active site in Antarctica and Danilo IZ1KHY is trying to set up an HF gear to be on air from there and giving the chasers this “New One” activated only once by David FT4YM/P in the year 2022.

Unfortunately, Danilo is experiencing high SWR and seems that something is wrong on the dipole or on the coax cable, also because the outside temperature is extremely cold on the Antarctic Plateau.

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Danilo said that in the morning even if it’s a sunny day, temp is 50°C below zero! There is much work at the LDC-Epica Camp and his free time is limited but he is optimistic;  we are sure we can get him on the log before too long!

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Let’s keep our finger crossed!!!

Now a days, modern tourist proposals, allow to visit and stay in some of the most exclusive places in the world, including Antarctica. Inspired by the seminal age of Space exploration, Echo Camp sits in quiet solitude encircled by pitted rock formations at 71°32’47” South, 8°50’11” East.

Echo Camp is as close as one can get to feeling like being off the planet without leaving Earth.

The space-age design of the ‘Sky Pods’ makes them look like they’ve been beamed down from Mars. Futuristic and luxurious, the six bedrooms are created from composite material with floor to ceiling windows allowing guests to soak in the moon-like landscape beyond.

Perfect for exclusive use groups and catering for up to 12 people, Echo allows guests to combine an ultra-luxury experience with a once in lifetime adventure on the 7th Continent.

As with all White Desert’s camps, Echo is designed to be dismantled, leaving no trace on the Antarctic landscape.
WAP has chosen to give credit to any settlements, camps, refuges or whatsoever  field installations by giving a  Mutinationality (MNB) reference of the place, whitout any corporate attribution of ownership nor of the Country in which the Company itself is based. This choice was dictated by the need to simplify the management of the WAP Directory.

The stations, scientific camps and shelters and any other structure created by the National Scientific Organizations operating in Antarctica, have as their WAP reference , the code of the nation they belong to.

The new Vostok as seen at the end of the 2023-24 austral summer. The sign НОВАТЭК on the front of one of the modules is for the Russian contractor Novatek which has been constructing the station.
The installation and interior finishing of the first 3 modules was completed in the 2023 winter, and in the 2023-24 summer the module systems were tested, including a “test winter.” During the 2024 winter 30 folks worked on the station, with the plans being for dedication and occupancy of the new station in January 2025.

The new building at Vostok Station (WAP  RUS-13) includes five modules with a total area of about 2000 m² . The length of the building being constructed is 140 m, the maximum height is 17.5 m. The modules are installed on 36 three-meter supports, which will allow the station to remain free of snow for many years. The building includes scientific laboratories, residential and public spaces for polar explorers, energy centers and technical units for a water treatment and storage system, as well as a garage. The station has a modern medical unit with an operating room, a pressure chamber, a dental and X-ray room, a wardroom with billiards and a cinema room, a gym and a sauna. New building will be able to provide a comfortable stay and research activities for 35 seasonal specialists and up to 15 people during the wintering period.

In addition to 25 builders, 5 specialists from the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute” will be involved in the test wintering. Also, from February to December 2024, a group of winter workers consisting of 30 people plans to carry out work on the installation of internal engineering systems and finishing of the premises of the completed blocks. From January 2025, full commissioning of the Vostok new building is planned

Much of the above information was provided by the Russian delegation to the September 2024 46th Antarctic Treaty meeting held in Kochi, India.

Click here  for more information and photos about the New Vostok Station  (WAP RUS-13)

The first hike, which set off a week ago from the coast of Antarctica to the center of the icy continent, reached the Vostok station.

At the same time, two new sledge-tracked hikes were launched along the Progress – Vostok – Progress route.

The task of the first one is to deliver 85 tons of fuel to the 1100 km sub-base located along the route of the transport. The second one will transport 175 tons of cargo to the East, including fuel, equipment for equipping a new wintering complex and a replacement team of polar explorers.
No Ham radio operations are planned during the convoy  traverse.

TNX  Oleg UA6GG @ DX Design & Polar Trophy