Logistics at The Sverdrup Research Station

The main logistics units of the Norwegian Polar Institute are located in Tromsø and Longyearbyen. Most of the equipment, which is needed for field expeditions is available in Ny-Ålesund as well. The station has an extensive and well-equipped logistics department offering the visiting scientists:
  • Polarcircle working boats, rubber and aluminum boats
  • Snowmobiles and sledges
  • Field equipment (such as tents, sleeping bags, primus, clothes, etc.)
  • Safety equipment (such as rifles, radios, personal beacons etc.)

All the field equipment, the visiting scientists would like to rent from NPI, must be specified in the registration form under "Submit Booking". All the needed field equipment must be specified in the registration under "Submit Booking" by the visiting scientists. To ensure the availability of the equipment, the deadlines for the applications are 15th of February for spring season and 15th of April for summer season.

Since polar bears can be encountered in the surroundings of Ny-Ålesund all year round, we require that scientists in the field always carry a VHF radio and a rifle for safety. Due to legal restrictions, the Norwegian Polar Institute can provide rifles only to researchers within Norwegian Polar Institute projects. Other researchers need to contact Kings Bay for rental of rifles. In both cases, proof of a recent shooting training must be provided. Necessary training (safety-course) can be provided by the Norwegian Polar Institute at NPI Longyearbyen or Tromsø before arrival to Ny-Ålesund. Training through Kingsbay can be arranged in Ny-Ålesund as well, but needs to be booked before arrival.

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