Image source: topwar.ru
The ice-resistant platform "North Pole" has completed all tests and has already begun preparations for the launch of the first flight, which is planned for the very beginning of autumn. Alexander Makarov, Director of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AANI), told about the plans.
Currently, preparatory work is underway on the platform for its transfer to the customer, which will take place at the end of July. After that, preparations for the first flight will begin, the departure is scheduled for September 1. The LSP will leave St. Petersburg and proceed to Murmansk, where scientists will board it. Next, the expedition will go to the ice fields to the north of the Novosibirsk Islands, where it will drift. That's where the platform will freeze into the ice.
- Makarov declared.
27 scientists, 14 sailors and several engineers of the Admiralty Shipyards will take part in the expedition.
The ice-resistant self-propelled platform of project 00903 is an all-season research platform with the functionality of a research center. Designed for year-round scientific research in the Arctic Ocean. Officially laid down at the Admiralty Shipyards on April 10, 2019, launched on December 18, 2020.
The vessel will be able to conduct geological, acoustic, geophysical and oceanographic observations, move in the ice without the involvement of an icebreaker (ice class Arc8), receive heavy helicopters of the Mi-8AMT type (Mi-17). Length – 83.1 m; width – 22.5 m; displacement – about 10,390 tons; EC power – 4200 kW; speed - at least 10 knots; fuel reserve autonomy - about 2 years; service life - at least 25 years. The crew of the vessel is 14 people + 34 scientific staff.
