What to Expect at Palmer Station
Palmer Station, operated by the US Antarctic Program and host for Palmer LTER and other scientific research projects, is located on Anvers Island, at 64°46’S, 64°03’W and is accessed via a 4-day sail from Punta Arenas, Chile (there is no routine air service). Palmer Station is a year-round research base with a maximum capacity of 45 including scientists and students, logistics support personnel, cooks, and a fulltime doctor.
Wildlife at Palmer Station is abundant which makes it superbly located for biological studies of birds, seals, and other components of the marine ecosystem. Housing at Palmer Station is similar to college dormitories with community bathrooms. Linens, blankets and pillows are provided. Participants are assigned a roommate. Washing machines, dryers and detergent are provided free of charge. There is also a sauna. Everyone participates in household duties, such as cleaning common areas. A physician, with emergency dental training, is accessible on station at all times.
Palmer’s climate is milder than that of the other U.S. antarctic stations primarily because it comes under the influence of a polar-maritime air mass. The mean annual temperature is –3°C (27°F). Average temperatures range between 2°C (36°F) in the summer and –10°C (14°F) in the winter. The annual average wind is about 10 knots. Compared to other U.S. Antarctic Program stations precipitation is high, with ample rainfall. The water equivalent in snow and rain averages 81 cm (32 inches) per year.
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