India’s first winter of Arctic research

Why in news?

• India sent off its first winter expedition, comprising four scientists to Himadri in the Arctic. 

Key Points: 

• With this initiative, India’s Himadri becomes the fourth research station in the Arctic to be manned year-round.
• The expedition will focus on atmospheric sciences, astronomy, astrophysics, climate studies, and more.
• Himadri has been equipped for polar night observations, with support from Norwegian agencies.
• Himadri is  India’s sole research station in Ny-Ålesund, located 1,200 kilometres from the North Pole.

Global Presence: 

• Japan’s National Institute of Polar Research established the first station in Ny-Ålesund in 1990.
• Eleven permanent research stations have been constructed in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, by ten countries, including India.
• Until now, only three stations in the Arctic have been manned throughout the year.