Novolazarevskaya

Novolazarevskaya is a Russian Antarctic research station located in Queen Maud Land, East Antarctica. It was established on January 18, 1959, by the 3rd Soviet Antarctic Expedition. The station is situated on the Schirmacher Oasis, a nunatak free of ice and snow, at an elevation of 120 meters above sea level. This unique location provides relatively ice-free terrain suitable for scientific activities and the construction of infrastructure.

The primary purpose of Novolazarevskaya is to conduct year-round meteorological, glaciological, geophysical, and biological research. It serves as a crucial base for studies of the Antarctic ice sheet, atmospheric conditions, and the unique ecosystems of the region. The station has played a significant role in international Antarctic research programs and collaborations. Over the years, it has undergone several upgrades and expansions to improve its facilities and research capabilities.

Novolazarevskaya has a small permanent staff, typically around 20-30 individuals during the winter and up to 70 during the summer season. The station is equipped with living quarters, laboratories, a power plant, and a runway for aircraft operations, facilitating the transport of personnel and supplies. It is one of Russia's key research outposts in Antarctica, contributing valuable data to the global understanding of the polar environment and its changes. The station's proximity to other national bases also supports collaborative scientific endeavors.