British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, it has, for almost 60 years, undertaken the majority of Britain’s scientific research on and around the Antarctic continent. It now shares that continent with scientists from over thirty countries. BAS employs over 400 staff, and supports three stations in the Antarctic, at Rothera, Halley and Signy, and two stations on South Georgia, at King Edward Point and Bird Island. The Antarctic operations and science programmes are executed and managed from Cambridge, and rely on a wide-ranging team of professional staff.

British Antarctic Survey Strategy
The structure of the Earth is very complicated. Its many parts link together in different ways over vast ranges of space and time. Understanding how the system works, and in particular how it is responding to ever-increasing human pressures, is arguably science’s greatest challenge. Within the Earth system, the Antarctic, although it is geographically remote, is of special relevance. The Southern Ocean, its sea-ice cover and the great Antarctic ice sheet are important parts of the climate system. The Antarctic environment provides a sensitive indicator of global change. Antarctic sediments and ice cores tell us about the history of past climate, which can help us predict the climate of the future. Seizing these opportunities for important global research will teach us more about the processes that affect everyone.
British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is an international leader in Antarctic science relevant to global problems, carrying out science that is excellent, relevant and important. But we can and must do more, widening our focus to include the whole planet (now called Earth System Science). Our strategy outlines how we are going to achieve this goal.

BAC Strategic Priorities for 2002 to 2012
• Focus our work on relevant key global or basic science issues
• Achieve excellence in delivering science using best practice
• Lead national and international science partnerships
• Achieve worldwide public recognition for excellence
• Maintain a British presence in the Antarctic
• Minimise our effects on the environment
• Build a top-quality, professional workforce

RELATED  ON SUSTY»

British Antarctic Survey Website: Info, Photos, Video & Webcams ONLINE »
Obama Inauguration Sparks Antarctic Geologists’ Hopes VIDEO
Wilkins Ice Shelf Hangs by a Thread in Antarctic VIDEO
Glacier Melt Warning Signs from the Antarctic VIDEO
Rain Speeds Antarctic Peninsula Glacier Melt – Global Climate Change Feedback 
All posts tagged Antarctica