Mawson Station

Mawson Station

Mawson Station is one of three permanent Antarctic research bases operated by the Australian Antarctic Division, situated on the coast of East Antarctica. Established in 1954, it is named after the renowned Australian Antarctic explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson. Mawson Station serves as a base for scientific research programs, which include an underground cosmic ray detector, various long-term meteorological aeronomy and geomagnetic studies, and continuing conservation biology studies, particularly of the nearby Auster Rookery, a breeding ground for Emperor and Adélie Penguins. Located at an altitude of approximately 15 meters above sea level, Mawson Station is situated on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by ice sheets and glaciers. The station's remote location, coupled with its extreme climate, makes it an ideal site for conducting research in some of the most inhospitable conditions on Earth. The harsh climate is characterized by extreme cold, high winds, and limited sunlight during the winter months, making it a challenging environment for scientists and support staff to live and work. Despite the challenges, Mawson Station is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and living quarters, designed to accommodate up to 53 personnel during the summer months. Among the region's notable geographic features are the Framnes Mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop for Mawson Station.