JUAN CARLOS PRIMERO

• AQJCP
• Latitude: -62.6604
• Longitude: -60.3862
• Antarctica
• Shelter in Antarctica

Location: Antarctica

The Juan Carlos Primero base, often referred to as the Juan Carlos I Base, is a Spanish Antarctic research station located on Livingston Island in the South Shetland Islands, near the Antarctic Peninsula. Here’s a general description and specification:

Description:

1. Location: The base is situated on the Hurd Peninsula, Livingston Island, in the South Shetland Islands. This area is known for its relatively mild Antarctic climatic conditions compared to the interior of the continent.

2. History: Named after King Juan Carlos I of Spain, the station was established in 1988. It serves as a seasonal research station primarily operating during the austral summer months (November to March).

3. Purpose: The facility supports a variety of scientific research activities including glaciology, meteorology, biology, geology, and environmental sciences.

4. Management: The station is managed by the Spanish National Research Council (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, CSIC).

Specifications:

1. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Accommodation: Provision for about 24 scientists and support personnel.
   • Laboratories: Equipped with laboratories for biological, geological, and environmental research.
   • Power Supply: The station is powered mainly by diesel generators, with supplementary solar panels.
   • Communication: Satellite communication systems provide internet and telephone services.
   • Logistics: Helicopters and boats are used for transportation to and from the station given the surrounding ice and rugged terrain.

2. Port/Marine Access:

   • Jetty/Wharf: The base is accessible via the Chilean naval base Arturo Prat by boat, as it lacks a dedicated port facility. Equipment and supplies are typically delivered by sea and offloaded at nearby accessible points, then transported to the base.
   • Landing Facilities: Zodiac boats and inflatable crafts are often used for landing personnel and cargo on the beach.
   • Supply Chain: Supplies such as food, fuel, and scientific equipment are typically brought in by supply vessels during the summer months.

3. Environmental Regulations: The operations follow strict environmental regulations under the Antarctic Treaty System ensuring minimal human impact on the fragile ecosystem.

4. Research Focus: Significant research conducted at the base includes:

   • Climate change studies examining ice core samples and glacial retreat.
   • Marine biology, including studies of Antarctic marine ecosystems.
   • Geology, including volcanic and seismic activity monitoring.
   • Atmospheric sciences, including air quality and UV radiation measurements.

5. Safety Measures: Given the harsh conditions, the base is equipped with emergency shelters, medical facilities, and has protocols in place for emergency evacuation and rescue operations.

The Juan Carlos I Base embodies Spain’s commitment to Antarctic exploration and scientific research, contributing valuable data to global understanding of this remote and extreme environment.