To ensure the continuous operation of Akademik Vernadsky station, the validity of the State Special-Purpose Research Program in Antarctica has been extended until 2023. This will ensure the further implementation and financing of Ukrainian Antarctic expeditions.
The relevant Government decree “On the Extension of the Term of Implementation of the State Special-Purpose Research Program in Antarctica for 2011-2020” was adopted on January 20, 2021.
The plan provides for the preparation and approval of the State Special-Purpose Research Program in Antarctica until 2030. However, in the context of the coronavirus pandemic, it is extremely difficult to plan expenditures in advance and assess the possibilities of carrying out certain studies. But the work that is already underway at the Ukrainian Antarctic Akademik Vernadsky station (in particular, long-term research programs, repair and modernization of the station) should be carried out continuously. Therefore, the government has approved the extension of the current program of research in Antarctica for the next 3 years.