Estonian Scientist Endures Antarctica's Endless Summer for Polar Research

Estonian polar scientist Priit Tisler is currently working at a research station in Antarctica. The base, located in Queen Maud Land, operates only during the southern hemisphere's summer—from November to February. This season, the team is unusually small, with just six members instead of the usual 20.

Tisler has made over ten trips to Antarctica, starting with scientific research before shifting to logistics and technical support. He describes the first and last days at the station as the most memorable moments of each expedition.

The research station runs under constant daylight during the Antarctic summer. This 24-hour sunshine allows non-stop scientific activity, though the facility remains empty for the rest of the year. Despite its remote location, the work is highly international, with researchers from multiple countries collaborating.

This year's team is smaller than usual, operating well below the station's 20-person capacity. Tisler is set to leave Antarctica in early February, marking the end of another season. The Estonian flag has flown at the station more than ten times, reflecting the country's long-standing involvement in polar research.

The station will close again once summer ends, leaving the continent empty until next November. Tisler's return to Estonia in February will wrap up another expedition, adding to his decade-plus experience in Antarctica. The research conducted there continues to rely on international cooperation and seasonal operations.