A new chapter for Rothera Research Station: inside the Operations Tower

 

7 March, 2025 Rothera

 

As Rothera Research Station continues its modernisation programme, Matt Hughes, Tower Operations Supervisor, shares his thoughts on the transition to our new Operations Tower, marking a significant milestone in Antarctic aviation history.

 

A room with a view

 

The Operations Tower, now crowning the Discovery Building, our new science and operations facility, offers an extraordinary 360-degree view through massive triple-glazed windows. Standing taller than its predecessor, it provides unprecedented views of Ryder Bay and the northern Antarctic landscape. The interior features a specially designed desk with three operational positions, complemented by new walls, ceilings, and a distinctive deep yellow stairwell that “grows on you with time.”

 

Technical excellence

 

Since late December, our Tower Transition Team has transformed this space into a modern facility. The new Voice Control Communications System (VCCS) mirrors professional Air Traffic Control centres, enabling communication via high frequency, AeroVHF, MarineVHF radio and the Iridium satellite network. This IP-based system even allows for complete operational backup from an emergency location. For Rothera’s Operations Tower, this provides us with a more flexible system making it easier to upgrade and maintain.

 

Farewell to an icon

 

It was a poignant handover from the old Operations Tower as the last aircraft we would speak to from there came in to land, coincidentally coinciding with the final flight of the field season. The original tower has been an iconic symbol of Rothera for 25 years, one of only a few such structures on the continent, witnessing countless crucial moments in Rothera’s history.

 

Some of the happiest and saddest moments of my working life in Antarctica have been born out of that tower. As I collected items I needed to carry across to the new tower, I left with a tinge of sadness but also anticipation to start afresh.

 

Looking forward

 

Having now moved into the new tower, I do feel enthusiasm for the future. As I look out to the south over Ryder Bay, the Dash-7 aircraft having just left frequency for Punta Arenas, I feel a huge sense of excitement to get the new Operations Tower up and running. It’s going to be fantastic to operate from here for the full season next year and beyond.

I wanted to express my thanks to everyone involved for their phenomenal hard work and patience. So many people have helped with the move to this new facility from across the British Antarctic Survey and our fantastic construction partners at BAM and GA Barnie.

 

About the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP)

 

The modernisation at Rothera Research Station is part of the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) – a long term-investment delivered by British Antarctic Survey and partners, BAM, Ramboll, Sweco, GA Barnie and Hugh Broughton Architects.