Research resumes at the laboratories of the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station

The 40th Antarctic Operation (OPERANTAR XL) marked the return of field research and the full use of the new Comandante Ferraz Station's laboratories for the 2021/2022 Antarctic summer season

Of the 14 internal units, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, the chemistry laboratory for terrestrial and oceanographic research, the micromolecular biology laboratory, the bioassay laboratory and the microbiology laboratory. Three other laboratories are installed outside the main building.

Due to the health protocols still in force due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, OPERANTAR XL was carried out with some restrictions, with the participation of approximately 80 researchers allowing for on-site investigations and ensuring the significant scientific production.

Brazil is member of the Antarctic Treaty and takes part of the decision-making processes regarding that continent. In 2012, the base was ravaged by a fire that claimed two lives and affected 70% of the facilities. After reconstruction and modernization, the Base reopened in 2020.