Halley VI Antarctic Research Station

Halley is the UK’s most southerly research station at
75ºS and 27ºW and is located on the 150-metre thick
floating Brunt Ice Shelf, which moves 400 metres per
annum towards the sea. Snow levels rise by 1 metre
every year, and the sun does not rise for 105 days
during winter. Temperatures drop to -56ºC and winds
blow in excess of 100mph. Access by ship and plane is
limited to a 3-month summer window. All components
for the new base had to be delivered across fragile sea
ice, which can fracture at any time.

The international competition winning design was
developed in response to the science, the comfort of
residents, buildability, the climate and snow drifting
predictions. To meet these demands it was crucial to
maximise flexibility. This was achieved with a modular
approach. Highly insulated steel framed GRP clad
modules are used for a wide variety of activities
ranging from laboratories and bedrooms to recreation
areas and energy centres. The red module provides
the social heart of the new station.

Interior design was developed to help support the 16
person crew through the long dark winters. To avoid
the fate of previous abandoned stations, the modules
are supported on giant steel skis and hydraulically
driven legs that allow the station to mechanically
‘climb’ up out of the snow every year. And as the ice
shelf moves out towards the ocean, the modules can
be lowered and towed by bulldozers further inland,
and eventually taken apart when the time comes.
Halley VI is a visitor to Antarctica, not a resident.