Personnel and Cargo Transport in Antarctica: Analysis of Current U.S. Transport System

An analysis of the National Science Foundations surface vehicle fleet in Antarctica is reported on here. Surface vehicle needs have been determined through interviews of vehicle users, managers and maintainers, and from direct on-site observation. An ideal grouping of vehicle categories is proposed that will address current needs and provide flexibility for the future. Ultimately, recommendations for streamlining and modernizing the NSF Antarctic vehicle fleet are made. Cargo transportation over snow was identified as being in a crisis state. Personnel movement functions for all but traversing are performed adequately at this time, although there is much room for improvement. Brands and models must be selected for some categories of recommended vehicle types. This will naturally follow a more in-depth analysis of candidates and discussions with NSF vehicle managers. A purchasing plan, including a time table, budget, and desired sequence of replacement, must then be formulated and executed.