Sormitsen

Sormitsen is a small village located in the municipality of Svalbard, Norway. It is situated on the northern coast of the island of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. The village is known for its strategic importance during the Cold War era, as it was one of the few places in the Arctic where a runway could be built due to its flat terrain. This made it a crucial stopover point for military aircraft and supply missions.

Sormitsen is home to a small population of researchers and support staff who work at the nearby Ny-Ålesund research station. The village has a basic infrastructure, including a small airport, a few buildings for accommodation, and facilities for scientific research. The local economy is primarily based on tourism and research activities.

The village is named after the nearby Sormitsen mountain, which is one of the highest peaks in the area. Despite its small size, Sormitsen plays a significant role in the scientific and logistical operations of the Svalbard region. The village is accessible by boat or aircraft, and it is a popular destination for tourists interested in Arctic exploration and scientific research.