Scientists from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, together with St. Petersburg Mining University, conducted a unique experiment on drilling an ice well at Vostok station. The use of organosilicon embedding fluid opens up new possibilities for environmentally friendly exploration of a subglacial lake.
Russian scientists have taken an important step in studying Lake Vostok, the largest subglacial body of water in Antarctica. As part of the experiment, a well 3,595 meters deep was drilled at Vostok station using organosilicon drilling fluid. This material, delivered in conditions of extreme temperatures down to -60°C, will make it possible in the future to carry out an environmentally safe opening of the lake and obtain unique data on its properties.
Lake Vostok, hidden under a layer of ice, is a unique ecosystem, isolated from the outside world for millions of years. To study it, fundamentally new technologies are required, since existing drilling methods are not suitable for such tasks. Scientists plan to drill a new large-diameter well, which will allow them to immerse equipment for sampling water and bottom sediments.
In 2012, Russian researchers first reached the surface of Lake Vostok at a depth of 3,769.3 meters. Then samples of lake ice and frozen water were obtained, which became the basis for fundamental scientific discoveries. A new stage of research is aimed at a more in-depth study of the hydrological regime, biological diversity and history of the formation of the lake.
Vostok Station, founded in 1957, remains a key site for the study of Antarctica. Harsh climate conditions, including record low temperatures, make research extremely challenging, but Russian scientists continue to demonstrate a high level of scientific competitiveness on the international stage.
Source: www.aari.ru
