From Polar Science to Public Action: 30 Years of the Ukrainian Antarctic Station Akademik Vernadsky in Times of Polycrisis

This year the Ukrainian Antarctic Station “Akademik Vernadsky” (UASAV) celebrates its 30-year anniversary as a Ukrainian research facility. Formerly the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) station Faraday, it hosts the longest uninterrupted meteorological observations in Antarctica, with records beginning in 1947. Ukraine assumed responsibility for the station in 1996 after signing a Memorandum with BAS committing to the continuation of core observations at least 10 years. Thereby preserving and enhancing one of the most valuable long-term climate datasets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Over three decades, UASAV has developed into a multidisciplinary research platform contributing to global understanding of interactions within climate system components: atmosphere–ocean–cryosphere-biosphere-lithosphere interactions. Particularly, Antarctic ecosystems are in focus of UASAV research.

Ukrainian scientists actively participate in major international initiatives. Engagement in YOPP-SH (Year of Polar Prediction – Southern Hemisphere) contributes to international efforts to improve weather and climate forecasting through coordinated polar observations particularly in winter with radio sounding of atmosphere which UASAV contributed over 10% of all additional launches among all Antarctic stations. Within HORIZON 2020 PolarRES, research focused on improving polar climate predictability and understanding polar feedbacks in the Earth system. The ongoing OCEAN ICE project addresses coupled ocean–sea ice processes and their role in climate regulation; as a Horizon 2020 project, it places strong emphasis on communication to demonstrate to European society the value of polar research for climate knowledge, environmental policy, and sustainability. Participation in ERASMUS+ project OPTIMA supported integrated Antarctic observations and modeling into Open Science standards particularly in displaced Ukrainian universities.

Despite the ongoing russian aggression against Ukraine and the broader context of global polycrisis, the National Antarctic Scientific Center (NASC) of Ukraine continues to ensure uninterrupted station operations, long-term observations, and international scientific cooperation, particularly within the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR). The high level of Ukrainian Antarctic research is further supported by the research vessel Noosfera (formerly the British James Clark Ross), enabling marine expeditions, oceanographic measurements, and logistical independence.

Beyond research, NASC actively develops climate and polar science communication through traditional media and social platforms, organizes educational outreach with schools, and conducts national photo and video competitions. These activities engage younger generations, foster environmental awareness, and promote values of nature conservation and geoethical responsibility. The 30-year history of UASAV illustrates how sustained science, education, and communication can transform crisis into action and reinforce the societal relevance of polar research.