Mirny Station

Mirny Station is a research facility on the Antarctic coast with approximately 30 buildings positioned 37 meters above sea level. The installation supports scientific work year-round in one of Earth's most severe environments.

The station was founded in 1956 by the Soviet Union and marked the beginning of systematic Soviet research activities in Antarctica. This establishment was part of the broader effort during the International Geophysical Year, a coordinated global research initiative.

The research conducted here focuses on understanding ice, Earth movements, weather patterns, and ocean life across the seasons. These investigations represent long-standing scientific contributions that have shaped how we know the Antarctic region.

The best time to visit is during summer months when about 50 researchers are on-site and the weather is comparatively milder. Access is typically only possible through expeditions organized by scientific institutions or authorities.

The location is known for its extreme wind conditions, with fierce gusts occurring on more than 200 days each year. This constant wind stress makes the station one of the windiest places on the continent.