Angelika Hanchuk to Lead Ukraine's 31st Antarctic Expedition
In a historic first, Angelika Hanchuk has been appointed to lead Ukraine's 31st annual Antarctic expedition to the 'Akademik Vernadsky' station for the 2026-2027 season. This marks the first time a woman will command a full-year expedition in the history of the nation's Antarctic research program. Her appointment is particularly significant given that women were barred from participating in these expeditions until as recently as 2018.
A meteorologist by profession, Hanchuk previously participated in Ukraine's 27th Antarctic expedition, having been selected through a competitive process. The 'Akademik Vernadsky' station hosts a wide range of scientific studies, including:
- Hydrometeorological research;
- Launching aerological probes;
- Hydrological studies;
- Glaciological research;
- Ozonometric measurements.
The station also collaborates with other international expeditions, such as those from the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Mexico.
Hanchuk emphasized that only someone who has previously overwintered in Antarctica is eligible to lead an expedition, underscoring the immense responsibility of the role. She added that anyone who fails to grasp this responsibility would not pass the rigorous psychological screening. The selection process for all expedition members is comprehensive, assessing:
- Relevant academic qualifications;
- Professional experience;
- Medical and psychological fitness.
The station operates with a mix of historical and modern equipment, including a 70-year-old mareograph and a 1970s-era Australian-made ionosonde, alongside a new Ukrainian ionosonde developed by Kharkiv geophysicists from the Radio Astronomy Institute of the National Academy of Sciences. All participants are required to complete first-aid training before departure.
Future of Ukrainian Polar Research
Following the conclusion of the war, plans are in place to expand the nation's polar program from an Antarctic focus to a broader Arctic-Antarctic scope. The Ukrainian government funds the expedition's basic necessities, such as clothing, food, and fuel, demonstrating continued support for national scientific endeavors despite current challenges.
Angelika Hanchuk's appointment represents a major milestone for Ukrainian Antarctic science, breaking a long-standing historical barrier. It highlights the growing role of women in STEM fields and opens new perspectives for research that can contribute to the global understanding of climate change. This leadership change comes as polar research becomes increasingly vital for monitoring planetary health.
The planned shift to a dual Arctic-Antarctic program indicates Ukraine's adaptation to new scientific challenges in an era of global climate shifts. It also signals that Ukrainian science continues to advance and evolve actively, even in the face of external adversity.