Orcadas Station

Orcadas Station is an Argentine research facility on Laurie Island in the South Orkney Islands with eleven buildings arranged along the coastline. The buildings sit about 4 meters (13 feet) above sea level and house scientific personnel throughout the year.

The facility was founded in 1903 by the Scottish National Antarctic Expedition as Omond House and taken over by Argentina in 1904. The continuity of occupation since then makes it one of the oldest continuously inhabited stations in Antarctica.

The station serves as a hub for international scientific collaboration in one of Earth's most isolated regions. Researchers from various nations work together here to gather data that advances understanding of the planet.

Up to 45 researchers work on site during summer months, while around 14 staff members remain during winter. Regular supply missions from Ushuaia keep the station stocked with materials and rotating personnel.

In 1927, the station established the first radio telegraph connection in Antarctica. This breakthrough technology linked the remote facility with mainland communication networks for the first time.

Location: Antarctic Treaty area

Location: Islas del Atlántico Sur Department

Inception: 1903

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

GPS coordinates: -60.74030,-44.74250

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29