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NATIONAL PROGRAM
United States in Antarctica
USAP operates three year-round stations and one of Antarctica’s largest logistics networks, connected mainly through Christchurch and Punta Arenas.
Reference profile · editorial review: 15 SEP 2026. Indicators are contextual and should be read with their period, methodology and primary source; they are not a real-time measure of available capacity.
PROGRAM
United States Antarctic Program (USAP)
Operates McMurdo, Amundsen–Scott South Pole and Palmer and a large logistics network. Its vessel operations page retains historical records of vessels whose NSF charters have ended.
USAP (opens a new tab)Reference indicators and scope
EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
Strengths
- Large-scale logistics
- Air bridge to McMurdo and the South Pole
- Marine science from Palmer
- Large contractor and employment network
MONITORING
What to watch
- Logistics contracts in Punta Arenas
- Air operations from Christchurch
- McMurdo infrastructure renewal
- USAP contractor openings
CATALOGUE
Key assets and facilities
- McMurdo Station
- Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station
- Palmer Station
- RVIB Nathaniel B. Palmer — historical archive; NSF charter ended OCT 2025
VERIFICATION