British Antarctic Survey

Racing to beat the Antarctic winter, contractors have completed a major milestone in the construction of a new science and operations building at Rothera Research Station designed to withstand polar conditions that is eco friendly and energy efficient.

A new research building designed to keep scientists safe in some of the most challenging conditions on the planet has begun construction in Antarctica. The project is defined by its aerodynamic design and is due to be completed in 2023.

The BAS's state-of-the-art polar research ship Boaty McBoatface was launched on Saturday July 14 at the Cammell Laird shipyards on the River Mersey. Okay, its name is actually RRS Sir David Attenborough after the NERC rejected McBoatface after it won a public vote in 2016.

The UK Science Minister Jo Johnson confirmed today that the vessel will be named "Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough" instead of "Boaty McBoatface."

Last month, the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) invited the public to help name its new £200 million polar research ship. The winner by a considerable margin was "RRS Boaty McBoatface," but there are doubts the words "I christen thee RRS Boaty McBoatface" will actually be muttered.

Next January, a squadron of disabled British servicemembers is scheduled to fly to the South Pole in up to five open-cockpit microlights to show what severely disabled people can achieve and inspire others to seek rehabilitation.

On Friday, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne announced that the British government had authorized the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) to go ahead with the design and construction of a new state-of-the-art vessel for polar research