Mobile communication at Vostok and Mirny stations

Russian operator MTS has made a technological breakthrough by providing mobile communication to the most extreme points of Antarctica – Vostok and Mirny stations. Polar explorers at all five Russian research bases on the icy continent can now stay in touch with their colleagues and loved ones despite temperatures below -80°C and the most difficult natural conditions.

Mobile communication at the planet’s “pole of cold”

The Vostok station, located at an altitude of 3488 meters above sea level, is known for the record low temperature of -89.2°C recorded in 1983. Here MTS has deployed a unique network, becoming the only Russian operator to overcome the challenges of the Antarctic winter. For a stable signal inside the new wintering complex, 30 antennas and a kilometer of radiating cable were used – a technology previously successfully applied in the tunnels of the St. Petersburg metro. Even in permafrost conditions, the scientists can now make calls, transmit data and conduct videoconferences at “home” rates.

Mirny: mobile communication among ice cracks

The vicinity of Mirny station, where the Antarctic shore turns into a 20-meter ice barrier, is considered one of the most dangerous. MTS provided GSM-coverage not only on the territory of the base, but also at the ships’ anchorage, which is critical for the safety of expeditions. The signal traverses deep crevasse zones, allowing real-time coordination of logistics and research.

Technology for Extremes: How Does It Work?

The key solution for East was a hybrid approach: internal antennas are supplemented by a radiating cable that distributes the signal throughout the complex. For communication outside the buildings, an all-weather external antenna, resistant to storm winds and icing, was installed. MTS engineers took into account the experience of Arctic projects, adapting the equipment to extreme temperature differences and thin air.

Science and safety: why is it important?

The two stations are key points for studying climate, geology and space. Access to mobile communication speeds up data exchange between scientists, simplifies emergency communication and improves the quality of life of polar explorers. According to MTS, the project confirms the company’s leadership in the development of hard-to-reach regions – from the Arctic latitudes to mountain plateaus.