The mission: saving history
Imagine living in 24-hour daylight, dealing with zero running water, and battling sub-zero temps—all while trying to save history. That’s the vibe for a new team of UK specialists heading to Antarctica. They’re on a 9,000-mile journey to Port Lockroy, a British science base on Goudier Island that is lowkey struggling against the reality of a rapidly warming planet.
This is the second year of a three-year conservation mission by the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust (UKAHT), and it’s their biggest one yet. The site is over 80 years old and includes the world’s southernmost Post Office, a museum, and a colony of over 1,000 gentoo penguins.
What’s the plan?
Because the Antarctic Peninsula is warming up fast, the base is facing serious structural issues from extreme weather and snow buildup. The team is stepping in to install beams and props to reinforce the buildings. They’ll also be playing scientist, monitoring those 1,000-plus penguins by counting nests, eggs, and chicks to keep the colony safe.
Meanwhile, a smaller field team of six experts will trek further south to Wordie House to conduct the first-ever full survey of that historic site, which holds some of the longest climate records on the continent.
Leading the crew
Carole McCullough, a former RAF member, is leading the Port Lockroy crew. She’s calling this trip the ultimate adventure. She’s joined by a group of pros, including conservation carpenters and mountain rescue specialists, who are ready to bond in one of the most remote spots on Earth.
Why it matters
Climate change isn't just a distant problem; it’s actively eroding the places where we track environmental history. Since 1947, when records at Wordie House began, the peninsula has become one of the fastest-warming spots on the planet. By saving these sites, we aren't just protecting old buildings—we’re preserving the record of how our planet is changing. It’s giving main character energy to save these sites before they’re gone for good.
