Port-Bizet, Seismological station on Île Longue, French Southern and Antarctic Lands.
Port-Bizet is a seismological station located on the northeastern coast of Île Longue and houses research facilities along with a pontoon for mooring vessels. The infrastructure was specifically designed to support earthquake monitoring work in this remote location.
The station began operations in the 1950s as part of early scientific missions to the region. Facilities were constructed to support seismological research in this remote southern location.
The name Port-Bizet stems from the Bizet sheep breed from Cantal that were introduced to Île Longue for local food supply.
Getting to the station requires traveling by boat from the Port-aux-Français base on the island. The mooring system accommodates vessels weighing up to 42 tons and provides safe docking for supply runs.
From 1955 to 2012, a shepherd lived at the station and managed a flock of sheep on the island. This unusual blend of scientific research and animal husbandry came to an end when the sheep herding operation was discontinued.
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