ARTURO PRAT

• AQAPT
• Latitude: -62.5
• Longitude: -59.6892
• Antarctica
• Shelter in Antarctica

Location: Antarctica

Arturo Prat Base, located on Greenwich Island in the South Shetland Islands, is one of the primary Chilean research stations in Antarctica. It is operated by the Chilean Navy and has been active since 1947. The port facility at Arturo Prat Base is relatively basic compared to major commercial ports but serves as a crucial logistical node for research activities.

Here are some specifications and details about the marine port at Arturo Prat Base:

Location

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 62° 30′ S, 59° 41′ W
• Island: Greenwich Island
• Nearby Landmark: South Shetland Islands

Port Facilities

• Wharf/Pier: The base has a small wharf/pier to accommodate research and supply vessels. Due to the harsh conditions, this facility is primarily utilized during the summer months when the ice conditions are more manageable.
• Anchorage: Ships usually anchor offshore and transport supplies via smaller boats due to the shallow waters and potential ice hazards.
• Docking Capacity: Limited to smaller research and supply vessels. The port does not support large commercial vessels.

Infrastructure

• Support Buildings: Contains a range of facilities such as laboratories, residential quarters, maintenance buildings, storage facilities, and communication centers.
• Fuel Supply: The base has storage for fuel needed to support its operations, primarily used to power generators and vehicles.
• Water Supply: Limited freshwater supply, supplemented by melting snow and ice.

Operational Aspects

• Seasonal Access: The base is generally accessible during the Antarctic summer (November to March) when sea ice retreats enough to allow easier marine access.
• Climate Conditions: Extreme and variable; temperatures can drop significantly, and conditions can change rapidly. High winds and sea ice are common.
• Logistics: Supplies and personnel are typically brought in by sea or air. The Chilean Navy plays a key role in ensuring the base is well-stocked and maintained.

Research Activities

• Primary Focus: The station supports a variety of scientific research, including glaciology, meteorology, marine biology, and geology.
• Collaborations: Often collaborates with other national and international scientific programs and may host researchers from various institutions.

Environmental Considerations

• Protection Measures: Operations at the base adhere to strict environmental protocols to minimize impact on the pristine Antarctic environment, following guidelines from the Antarctic Treaty System.

Communication

• Satellite and Radio: The base is equipped with satellite communications and reliable radio links to maintain contact with mainland Chile and other Antarctic stations.

In summary, the Arturo Prat Base's port facilities, while fundamental, are critical for maintaining Chile's scientific presence in Antarctica. The challenging conditions require careful logistical planning and robust support systems to ensure continuous operations.