Astrobiologist Dale Andersen is gearing up for a new field season at Lake Untersee, following a productive day of organizing equipment at Novolazarevskaya Station on January 9, 2026. The team anticipates concluding their preparations tomorrow, with plans to embark on a traverse to the lake on Sunday morning.
The weather conditions have been favorable, with sunny skies and minimal wind, making it easier to load and sort necessary gear. Andersen noted that this season marks a significant improvement in their operations, thanks to the installation of a dedicated staging area at the Ultima airbase.
Enhanced Facilities Make Operations Smoother
The new staging area is a WeatherPort hut measuring approximately 30 by 30 by 13 feet. This facility allows the team to store all their equipment, including snowmobiles and an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), in one accessible location. Previously, they had to manage multiple caches scattered across the area, complicating operations.
Andersen highlighted the importance of having a sheltered workspace. The hut enables the team to lay out equipment, troubleshoot issues, and perform maintenance without the challenges posed by wind and snow. He expressed gratitude to the crew at the Ultima airbase for their efforts in constructing the facility during the holiday season.
The adjacent storage unit is a larger WeatherPort structure, measuring 60 feet in length. This expansion not only enhances storage capabilities but also increases operational efficiency for the team. Andersen remarked on the spacious interior, which accommodates larger items and allows for easy access.
Looking Ahead to Research Opportunities
As the team prepares for their journey to Lake Untersee, Andersen reflects on his long-standing commitment to Antarctic research. He has been sharing updates from the region since 1996, marking nearly three decades of exploration and discovery. This year’s research season promises to yield valuable insights into astrobiology, with the team eager to investigate the unique ecosystem of the lake.
Regular updates will be provided as Andersen and his team progress through their fieldwork, continuing to contribute to our understanding of life in extreme environments. For those interested in following their journey, a regularly updated webcam image from Novolazarevskaya Station can be accessed online.
Andersen’s dedication to uncovering the mysteries of Antarctica remains unwavering, and this season’s preparations are a testament to the ongoing efforts in astrobiological research.
