Japanese Icebreaker Shirase Successfully Arrives at Showa Station in Antarctica

The Japanese icebreaker Shirase has successfully docked at Showa Station, the nation's research facility in Antarctica. The vessel reached the station, located near East Ongul Island, at approximately 9:44 a.m. local time on Tuesday.

The journey commenced on November 20, 2024, from the Yokosuka base of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force in Kanagawa Prefecture, and lasted around 40 days. Upon arrival, operations commenced to transport essential supplies and fuel from the Shirase to the research base using snowmobiles.

Prior to the Shirase's docking, some members of the 66th Antarctic research expedition team had arrived at Showa Station via helicopter three days earlier. They were joined by members of the 65th wintering team to welcome the icebreaker.

A member of the 66th team expressed relief at the safe arrival of the Shirase and conveyed hopes for a smooth continuation of transport and observational activities at the station. The team members had boarded the Shirase in Fremantle, Western Australia, on December 5, 2024, which was approximately two weeks after the ship's departure from Japan.

Showa Station operates as a crucial hub for scientific research in Antarctica, facilitating various studies related to climate, biology, and glaciology. The arrival of the Shirase marks a significant step in ensuring that the ongoing research activities can progress without interruption.

As Japan continues to enhance its presence in Antarctica, the operations conducted at Showa Station are integral to international scientific collaboration and environmental monitoring efforts in the region.