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Antarctic Operations
Up one levelAntarctic Facilities / Stations
The National Antarctic Programs operate in the Antarctic Treaty Area a number of Antarctic stations, field camps, depots, airfields and other facilities in support of their operations. It includes in particular a number of year-round stations, many of which have been in operation continuously since the 1950s.
Shipping
Most early exploration and surveying of the Antarctic relied on ships. National Antarctic Programs still rely on shipping for most of their resupply and expedition support needs, as well as for providing support platforms for a range of marine science activities.
Aviation
A range of fixed wing aircraft and helicopters are used into and within Antarctica to deliver personnel and selected cargo, provide search and rescue cover and conduct a range of aerial surveys. COMNAP publishes the Antarctic Flight Information Manual (AFIM) which includes details of all established landing sites for fixed and rotary wing aircraft in Antarctica including information on navigation aids, meteorological services, communications frequencies, etc.
Meteorology
Meteorological data collected in the Antarctic helps improve weather forecasting for the rest of the world. Local forecasting is crucial to the effective support and safety of Antarctic operations, and in particular air operations.
Charting and Hydrography
Accurate charts are essential to safe navigation in Antarctic waters. Safe navigation means safety to personnel but also reduced risks of environmental incidents in a fragile region. COMNAP works actively with the IHO's Hydrographic Committee on Antarctica (HCA) to improve Antarctic charts and continue to make Antarctic navigation safer for both personnel and the environment.
Environmental Management
Environmental management is a crucial and integral part of the work of the National Antarctic Programs, from the day-to-day management of field operations to the long-term development of best practice procedures to the provision of practical advice to the Antarctic Treaty System - all working towards both protecting the Antarctic and making operations more efficient and effective.
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