Despite all-out war, the wintering detachment of the 27th Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition went to Akademik Vernadskyi station in March 2022 and is currently completing its work here.

President met with attendees

On the 160th anniversary of Volodymyr Vernadskyi’s birth, Volodymyr Zelenskyi chatted with scientists currently on duty in Antarctica.

It’s important that we stay connected no matter the distance. Please inspire us all with the results of your research. I wish only success and further progress of Ukrainian science,
– said.

He noted that he was very happy to see Ukrainian scientists and researchers doing important work for their country at such a distance.

Thank you for not stopping our steps in the development of independent Ukrainian science despite the war. Today we are all fighting for our country and our future. And your steps towards the advancement of science also bring our victory closer,
– added the head of state.

Instead, the winterers of the 27th UAE thanked Zelenskyi for allowing the state to continue doing science.

Polar explorers talked about their research

During the online meeting, scientists briefed the president about the study of the impact of the Arctic and Antarctic on the climate of the planet, participation in the international project “The Year of Polar Forecasts”, the launch of climate probes into the atmosphere. More than 10 kilometers of altitude continued observations behind the ozone layer and the work of the magnetic observatory, providing crucial data for weather forecast modeling.

Researchers showed incredible images from Antarctica: watch the video

The head of the expedition, Yuriy Otruba, noted that polar explorers contributed, albeit from afar, to Ukraine’s struggle for independence and the future. In particular, they appealed to the scientific community to demand that all projects with Russia be stopped, and they organized various aid events to raise funds for the needs of the Armed Forces.