Expeditions clash over polar research base

A row has broken out over Belgium's scientific research base in the Antarctic. Two competing expeditions for the 2015-16 season are currently being prepared, according to a report in Le Soir.

On one side is the International Polar Foundation, lead by the charismatic explorer Alain Hubert. It ran previous expeditions at the Princess Elisabeth polar station, but was removed from the role earlier this year after losing the confidence of the Belgian government.

Even so, the foundation has sent out emails inviting polar scientists to apply to work at the station during the next research season and to make a payment covering costs. It says that the station is now international rather than Belgian.

This position was quickly refuted by the federal government, which maintains that the foundation has no right to issue invitations. Meanwhile the government department responsible for science policy is putting together its own polar expedition. Operations at the base will be supported by the armed forces until a new operator can be selected.

One source close to the affair told Le Soir that the situation was grotesque and ridiculous. "Two missions fighting over who goes to the Antarctic? Belgium is making a fool of itself on the international stage."

Photo © International Polar Foundation - René Robert