Russian telecom operator MTS has expanded mobile connectivity to two major Antarctic research stations, Vostok and Mirny, in collaboration with the Russian Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AARI). This deployment ensures that all five Russian research stations in Antarctica now have year-round mobile service, MTS announced on Tuesday.
First Cellular Network at the “Pole of Cold”
MTS has become the first Russian operator to establish a cellular network at the Vostok station’s new wintering complex, located at the coldest place on Earth. Engineers designed a specialized system for extreme conditions, incorporating internal antennas and a radiating cable—technology also used in the St. Petersburg metro. The setup includes nearly a kilometer of coaxial cable and over 30 antennas, ensuring seamless communication inside the facility. An external all-weather antenna extends coverage several kilometers beyond the complex.
At Mirny station, mobile service now spans the entire facility, including hazardous ice zones with deep crevasses. This expansion significantly enhances safety and connectivity for researchers in one of Antarctica’s most challenging environments. “GSM standard communication for polar explorers now works throughout Mirny, including the parking lot,” MTS reported on February 18.
Collaboration with AARI and the 70th Russian Antarctic Expedition
The network deployment at both stations is part of a joint initiative with AARI under the 70th Russian Antarctic Expedition (RAE). Vostok station, situated 3,488 meters above sea level, holds the record for the lowest recorded temperature on Earth—minus 89.2°C.
“Now, from our station in Antarctica, we can make calls using our standard tariff plans, send photos and videos, and even connect via video calls. This not only keeps us in touch with the world but also helps us explore one of the planet’s most mysterious continents,” said the director of AARI.
Expanding MTS Connectivity Across Antarctica
Since 2020, MTS has steadily expanded its telecom presence in Antarctica, now providing mobile and IoT services at five Russian research stations: Mirny, Vostok, Progress, Novolazarevskaya, and Bellingshausen. The NB-IoT network at Bellingshausen and Progress supports scientific research by transmitting critical data from AARI’s monitoring systems, further strengthening Russia’s digital infrastructure in the polar region.
