San Martín Base

San Martín Base is an Argentine research station in Antarctica. It is one of Argentina’s permanent bases on the continent and is run by the Argentine Army. The base is named after General José de San Martín, a national hero of Argentina.

 Geography 
San Martín Base is located on Barry Island, in Marguerite Bay, along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. This area is part of Graham Land, which is the northernmost part of mainland Antarctica.

 History 
The base was opened on March 21, 1951. It was the first Argentine base built on Antarctica’s mainland (not on an island). The station has been active ever since, making it one of the oldest permanent bases in Antarctica.

 Climate 
San Martín Base has a polar ice cap climate, with:
 Very cold temperatures, usually below 0°C (32°F) all year
 Strong winds and snow
 A short period of 24-hour daylight in summer and 24-hour darkness in winter

 Research and Activities 
Scientists at the base study:
 Glaciology (the study of ice and glaciers)
 Meteorology (the weather)
 Geology (the Earth’s surface)
 Biology (plants and animals in extreme environments)

The base also helps with logistics, mapping, and communications for other missions in the area.

 Facilities 
San Martín Base has:
 Living quarters for about 20 people in winter and more in summer
 Labs and equipment for scientific research
 A small airstrip for helicopters and supply planes (when weather allows)

Category:Antarctica
Category:Research stations in Antarctica