• The Antarctic is one of the harshest and most remote places on the planet and Britain has been investigating its unique environment for more than 200 years.
• Over the last 60 years, British Antarctic Survey (BAS), part of the Natural Environment Research Council, has been a world leader in Antarctic research.
• As well as running five Antarctic research stations (four year-round and one summer-only), BAS has five aircraft and two ice-strengthened ships, the RRS James Clark Ross and RRS Ernest Shackleton. The aircraft and ships are equipped with sophisticated technology and a range of specialist equipment, enabling them to carry out research as well as logistical operations.
• The helicopters carried by HMS ENDURANCE, give valuable assistance to BAS in moving scientists and stores and for aerial photography including photographing work sites.
• BAS enables the UK to maintain its role as one of the founding signatories to the Antarctic Treaty by making topical and independent research and advice available to the UK Government from its long-term research, monitoring and survey activities.
• The 44 Antarctic Treaty nations represent about two-thirds of the world’s human population.

Rothera Research Base on Adelaide Island

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