Ukrainian scientists have expanded their research on air quality in some of the most remote regions on Earth. During the current season, new measuring instruments were installed both at the Vernadsky Research Baseand on the research icebreaker “Noosphere”.
Antarctica is considered to have the cleanest air in the world. Nevertheless, researchers aim to better understand how pollutants from other continents can reach even this remote region. As early as 2024, a modern air quality analyzer from the company IQAir was put into operation at the Vernadsky station. The device measures tiny, suspended particles, so-called aerosols, of different sizes.
To improve the accuracy of the data, a second identical device has now been installed. This allows measurements to be compared and potential errors to be ruled out. The installation was carried out by ozonometer Serhiy Yakushchenko and meteorologist Oleksandr Nadtochii.
Initial results confirm that the air around the station is almost entirely free of pollutants. However, it does not remain completely constant. Natural events such as volcanic eruptions or strong storms can have an impact, as can climatic factors like wind or humidity. Scientists also warn that aerosols in the stratosphere can intensify chemical processes that damage the ozone layer.
Another focus lies on measurements over the world’s oceans. An additional air analyzer has been installed on board the icebreaker Noosphere. An AirGradient device is also being used there, measuring not only fine particulate matter (PM2.5) but also CO₂, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, as well as temperature and humidity.
“Over the oceans in particular, we still lack a great deal of data,” explains study leader Gennady Milinevsky. “Yet this information is crucial for improving global climate and weather models.” Measurements taken directly aboard a moving research vessel could now help close this gap.
The project is supported by IQAir and its Ukrainian partner Ecocene. For the researchers, one thing is clear: the data collected is not only important for science, but also for understanding the air quality that affects life across the entire planet.
Heiner Kubny, PolarJournal