Hundreds of scientists and support staff from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) are celebrating Christmas thousands of miles from their families in the freezing wilderness of Antarctica. Almost 300 members of the Cambridge-based organization are spread across five research stations and the vessel RRS Sir David Attenborough. Despite the remote location and isolation, the festive season is marked with decorations, secret Santa exchanges, and shared meals.
At Rothera Research Station on Adelaide Island, the UK’s largest Antarctic base, nearly 150 staff are spending the holiday with traditional activities, including sports like football, watching Christmas films, and preparing a festive meal. However, it’s not all fun and games—scientific work continues, with meteorological balloons launched, marine divers collecting specimens, and pilots assisting field teams.
For those on the Sir David Attenborough, Christmas Day will be spent sailing south of the Antarctic Peninsula. Meanwhile, Halley VI Research Station on the Brunt Ice Shelf and other smaller stations, including King Edward Point and Bird Island, have their own traditions, from decorating their bases to participating in festive games and events. Despite the harsh conditions, these activities help foster a sense of community and mental well-being for the isolated teams.
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