http://www.polarfoundation.org/ International Polar Foundation, Educate, Inform, Demonstrate en-uk Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:16:40 +0100 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:16:40 +0100 webmaster@polarfoundation.org (International Polar Foundation) http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_antarctica_reaches_its_zero_emission_target/ During a ceremony at the Princess Elisabeth Station, Sven Kerremans (Laborelec) and Jean Chalon (Schneider Electric) symbolically handed over the keys of the station's technical core to Alain Hubert, President of the International Polar Foundation. The event celebrated the completion of the final systems tests. The Princess Elisabeth Station is now officially the first research station ever to solely operate on renewable energies! Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:48:35 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_antarctica_reaches_its_zero_emission_target/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/polar_quest_a_contest_for_flemish_high_school_juniors/ Polar Quest is the new educational project from the International Polar Foundation, supported by the "Actieplan Wetenschapscommunicatie" of the Flemish Government. Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:04:22 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/polar_quest_a_contest_for_flemish_high_school_juniors/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/picture_this_sorting_the_archives/ The International Polar Foundation has for many years, had a hidden treasure in the depths of its server, buried among data sheets and reports. This fortune comes in the form of several thousand pictures. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:59:09 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/picture_this_sorting_the_archives/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_meeting_in_shanghai_for_the_world_expo_2010/ The International Polar Foundation was invited to be part of the Belgian pavilion to showcase Belgium’s involvement in sciences related to better understanding our climate. Working with Atelier Brückner (Stuttgart), the IPF has devised an LED-lit giant ice cube to draw visitors into the world of Polar Regions, polar science and climate change, with the Princess Elisabeth Station as the main feature. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:30:38 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_meeting_in_shanghai_for_the_world_expo_2010/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/laureate_inbevbaillet_latour_antarctica_prize_2008_leaving_for_antarctica/ Dr. Elie Verleyen (Laboratory of Protistology and Marine Ecology at the University of Ghent), laureate of the InBev-Baillet Latour Antarctica Prize 2008 organised by the  InBev-Baillet Latour Fund and the International Polar Foundation, will be flying to Usteinen and the Princess Elisabeth Station on the 3rd of January 2010. He will be staying in Antarctica for a period of five weeks to carry out field work. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:39:27 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/laureate_inbevbaillet_latour_antarctica_prize_2008_leaving_for_antarctica/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_participates_in_the_annual_meeting_of_three_belgian_antarctic_research_/ On 9 December 2009 at the University of Liège, Belgium, the IPF participated in the annual meeting of three Belgian Antarctic research projects: AMBIO, ANTAR-IMPACT & BELDIVA. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 15:10:37 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_participates_in_the_annual_meeting_of_three_belgian_antarctic_research_/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_attends_damocles_symposium_in_brussels/ From the 10th to the 12th of November, the IPF attended the DAMOCLES (Developing Arctic Modeling and Observing Capabilities for Long-term Environmental Studies) symposium held in Brussels, Belgium. The symposium convened researchers from all across Europe as well some from the United States, Canada, Russia, China and Japan to discuss and debate preliminary results they have obtained under the European-funded Arctic research project. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:27:06 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_attends_damocles_symposium_in_brussels/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/swiss_delegation_visitis_the_ipf/ On October 5th, 2009, a delegation of Swiss members of parliament and representatives from the Swiss Embassy in Brussels visited the International Polar Foundation (IPF) headquarters in Brussels. The delegation's visit took place in the general framework of "aiming at zero emissions" and enabled the Swiss delegation to gain more insight into the offerings of the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica as a research station. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:15:59 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/swiss_delegation_visitis_the_ipf/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2009-2010_the_new_season_has_just_begun/ At a briefing on Friday October 16th at the headquarters of the IPF, the new season for the Princess Elisabeth Station officially started! Fourty-four people will take part in BELARE this season, staying between one and five months at Utsteinen. The objective for this year is to finalize the tests of all the technical systems of the station. Moreover, a new satellite antenna will be installed next to the station. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:37:19 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2009-2010_the_new_season_has_just_begun/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/now_running_on_expressionengine/ To make a long story short, our websites were running on a custom made Content Management System (CMS) that served us well. We wanted to move to an industry standard CMS for the following reasons: scalability, ease of maintenance and speed optimisation. After considering different options, we chose ExpressionEngine and never looked back. Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:21:19 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/now_running_on_expressionengine/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/venturi_buckeye_bullet_2_sets_new_land_speed_records/ The Bonneville Speedway in the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah yet again saw new world records set as Venturi, a Monegasque manufacturer of electric automobiles, demonstrated its technological acumen. Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:21:19 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/venturi_buckeye_bullet_2_sets_new_land_speed_records/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/save_it_energy_efficiency_days/ From September 22nd until September 25th 2009, the International Polar Foundation is taking part in EESC's Save it! Energy Efficiency Days. The four-day event will end on Global Overshoot Day, the day on which humanity starts consuming more natural resources than the Earth can provide for the year. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:48:06 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/save_it_energy_efficiency_days/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_international_polar_foundation_at_sibos_2009/ From the 14th until the 18th of September, the International Polar Foundation is in Hong Kong participating in Sibos, SWIFT's annual conference which brings together representatives of the financial community from around the world to communicate and collaborate on global issues. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 09:24:04 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_international_polar_foundation_at_sibos_2009/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_big_ask_again/ On 29 August, 100 days prior to the United Nations Climate Change Conference which will be held in Copenhagen, the Belgian Climate Coalition is organizing a major demonstration on the beach of Ostende: The Big Ask Again. By getting the population together to "dance for the climate", The Big Ask Again is a demonstration of society's concern about climate change and a call for action. Alain Hubert, President of the International Polar Foundation, is an active support in this initiative. Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:12:18 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_big_ask_again/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/new_partnership_with_swift/ The International Polar Foundation (IPF) is honored that SWIFT has joined the ranks of the IPF's sponsors, supporting our mission of bridging the science-society divide. Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:56:59 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/new_partnership_with_swift/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/celebrating_30_years_of_the_inbev-baillet_latour_fund/ The InBev-Baillet Latour Fund celebrated its 30th anniversary on June 17th, in the presence of many of its friends and partners, including the International Polar Foundation. Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:53:04 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/celebrating_30_years_of_the_inbev-baillet_latour_fund/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_to_participate_in_shanghai_expo_2010/ The International Polar Foundation will partake in the Shanghai World Expo 2010 as part of the Belgian and European pavilion. With this year's theme being "Better Cities, Better Lives", the space allocated to the IPF will exhibit Belgium's and Europe's involvement in finding solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:48:04 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_to_participate_in_shanghai_expo_2010/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_successful_first_season_for_class_zero_emission/ With the first season of Class Zero Emission behind us, it is time for the International Polar Foundation to release its first assessment of the project. With 1700 pupils (1000 flemish-speaking and 700 French-speaking) having attended the workshop since its opening in March 2009, the IPF's educational team is quite satisfied with the overall outcome. Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:46 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_successful_first_season_for_class_zero_emission/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_song_for_the_ipf/ On June 27th and for the second year in a row, a fund-raising concert was held at the Abbey of Dieleghem in Brussels, in order to raise money for the International Polar Foundation and its projects. Diana Gonnissen and friends played a vast repertoire of songs from classical music to popular French songs, even getting the public to join in! Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:34:02 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_song_for_the_ipf/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/european_polar_summit/ The International Polar Foundation attended the European Polar Summit 2009 held on the 24th of June at the International Auditorium in Brussels and organised by the European Polar Board. During this meeting a Memorandum of Understanding for a "European Polar Framework" was signed closing the EUROPOLAR ERA-NET project. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:37:34 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/european_polar_summit/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/energy_environment_awards/ For the fourth year in a row, the International Polar Foundation grants an Energy & Environment Award to a candidate whose project has had favorable implications in fighting climate change. For this year's edition, held on June 5th at the "Maison des Tanneurs" in Brussels, the winner of the IPF prize was v.z.w. Komosie, from the province of Antwerp (Berchem). Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:38:03 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/energy_environment_awards/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipy_certificate_of_appreciation/ The World Meteorological Organization and the International Council for Science have awarded the International Polar Foundation's President, Mr. Alain Hubert, and Vice-President, Ms. Nighat Amin, with a certificate of appreciation. Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:45:49 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipy_certificate_of_appreciation/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_harvard_leadership_prize/ On May 28th 2009, Alain Hubert was awarded the Harvard Leadership prize by the Harvard Club of Belgium. This is the first year the prize has recognized someone for his legacy. Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:52:50 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_harvard_leadership_prize/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_awarded_an_honorary_doctorate/ On May 28th, Alain Hubert and three other meriting scientists were awarded an honoris causa degree by the University of Hasselt in Belgium. Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:40:21 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_awarded_an_honorary_doctorate/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/climactives_prize-winners/ As implied by its name, "Communes Clim'actives" is an award-winning contest offering a prize to communal institutions that have shown a strong action plan for fighting the climate challenge. The International Polar Foundation was President of the jury. In total, the contest attracted 124 submissions from 77 Belgian communes. Fri, 29 May 2009 13:56:44 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/climactives_prize-winners/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/networking_event_inside_class_zero_emission/ On Wednesday April 29th, 2009, the Flemish Government's department of Economy, Science and Innovation organized an afternoon of networking within the framework of a science communication action plan. As co-organizer of the meeting, the International Polar Foundation made its pedagogical workshop "Class Zero Emission" available for the occasion. All organisations active in science communication and popularization in Flanders were invited to the event. Thu, 14 May 2009 13:59:54 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/networking_event_inside_class_zero_emission/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_invited_to_monaco_for_an_antarctic_evening/ Invited by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, Alain Hubert, Director of the Princess Elisabeth Station project and winner of the Prince Albert II Foundation's award for climate change in 2008, attended a special event on Antarctica that followed up on the Prince's journey to the 7th continent during the 2008-2009 austral season. It was held on April 14th at the Grimaldi Forum of Monaco and gathered a number of scientific personalities, schoolchildren, journalists and citizens. Fri, 01 May 2009 14:04:52 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_invited_to_monaco_for_an_antarctic_evening/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/protect_7-7_in_antwerp/ Protect 7-7, a unique photography exhibition, was held on the 7th continent in January 2009. Wim Tellier, the author of this exhibit, chose the "Gedempte Zuiderdokken" in Antwerp to unfold on April 24th through 26th his six 20m X 40m photographs that had previously been carried to and displayed in Antarctica. A total of 4800 m2, it is the biggest art exhibition in the world.   Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:17:35 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/protect_7-7_in_antwerp/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_station_at_atcm_in_baltimore/ During the 32nd Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) and 50th anniversary celebration in Baltimore, Maryland (USA), the Belgian minister in charge of Economy and Administrative Simplification, Mr. Vincent Van Quickenborne, was proud to announce Belgium's return to Antarctica through the achievement of the Princess Elisabeth Research Station. Special congratulations were given to Alain Hubert, Founding President of the International Polar Foundation (IPF) and Director of the Princess Elisabeth Station Antarctica project, "whose energy and determination transformed this project into reality." Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:32:03 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_station_at_atcm_in_baltimore/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_polar_metro_station_in_the_centre_of_brussels/ In collaboration with the International Polar Foundation, STIB / MIVB (Société des transports intercommunaux de Bruxelles / Maatschappij voor Intercommunaal Vervoer van Brussel) inaugurated a new Metro station in Brussels on Monday, March 23rd. This new underground station, baptised "Belgica", is a tribute to Belgian exploration in Antarctica and a reminder of the dangers of climate change. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:54:26 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_polar_metro_station_in_the_centre_of_brussels/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/opening_ceremony_of_class_zero_emission/ Class Zero Emission (CZE), a pedagogical workshop initiated by the International Polar Foundation (IPF) covering the themes of the Polar Regions and climate change, was officially inaugurated on 25 March 2009 at the IPF in Brussels. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:58:31 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/opening_ceremony_of_class_zero_emission/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipy_ceremony_at_wmo_headquarters/ On February 25th, an international delegation of scientists was present at the World Meteorological Organization (WWMO) in Geneva, Switzerland, to celebrate the 4th International Polar Year (IPY) and the important milestone it has set in our understanding of the Earth's system. The WMO, who sponsored the IPY along with the International Council for Science, released its preliminary report "The State of Polar Research". Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:09:28 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipy_ceremony_at_wmo_headquarters/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_station_celebrations/ The inauguration of the Princess Elisabeth Station on February 15th was a success and a dream come true. In the opening ceremony preceding the official inauguration, Alain Hubert reminded everyone that the International Polar Year had been the drive for Belgium's initiative to return to Antarctica in the name of science. Wed, 18 Feb 2009 15:52:41 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_station_celebrations/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_exhibition_at_the_water_museum_in_flanders/ During the Christmas vacation and holiday season, Hidrodoe, the Water Museum in Flanders, held a special exhibition on the Princess Elisabeth Station. First zero emission research station in Antarctica, the Princess Elisabeth Station represents Belgium's main contribution to the International Polar Year which will come to an end in March 2009. Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:58:23 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/princess_elisabeth_exhibition_at_the_water_museum_in_flanders/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_featured_on_the_kid_city_website_of_belgacom/ Within the context of a partnership between Belgacom and the International Polar Foundation, Belgacom's educational and interactive website has integrated the IPF into the fictional town of Kid City. Several resources and activities covering the IPF, the Princess Elisabeth Station and the Polar Regions are available on the Kid City website: quizzes, flash animations, videos, contests, articles, stories, pictures, forums and polls. Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:55:48 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_featured_on_the_kid_city_website_of_belgacom/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_comic_strip_featuring_the_princess_elisabeth_station/ The renowned Belgian comic strip Suske en Wiske / Bob et Bobette has chosen to collaborate with the International Polar Foundation for their new album. The story brings Suske en Wiske / Bob et Bobette to Antarctica where they will pursue their adventures at the Princess Elisabeth Station. Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:08:53 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_comic_strip_featuring_the_princess_elisabeth_station/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/so_near_-_so_far/ The pursuit of science in Antarctica has always been a human andlogistical challenge. Not many fields of research are as dependent on acombination of environmental conditions, human ingenuity, andlogistics. There is no easy way to get to Antarctica, and ice - whichdefines the continent - remains its strongest rampart. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:21:14 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/so_near_-_so_far/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/contest_draw_your_own_zero_emission_station_and_send_your_drawing/ Here is an opportunity not to miss: a nation-wide drawing contest has just been launched in Belgium! This contest could lead to your drawing being sent to Antarctica for the Princess Elisabeth Station's inauguration! Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:32:48 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/contest_draw_your_own_zero_emission_station_and_send_your_drawing/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_scientific_research_conducted_around_the_station/ The Princess Elisabeth Station base camp looks a lot emptier now that the scientific and reconnaissance teams have left the Station for the coast. Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:43:49 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_scientific_research_conducted_around_the_station/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/panini_album_on_the_polar_regions/ The International Polar Foundation has signed a partnership with Panini to issue a sticker album for 8 to 12 year olds on the Polar Regions from February to April 2009. After having organized a nation-wide public contest, a name has finally been decided for the Arctic tern which will be followed throughout the album: "Ernest" for the French version and "Sterre" for the Dutch version. Congratulations to the winners! Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:52:07 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/panini_album_on_the_polar_regions/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_success_for_the_international_meteorological_forum_in_brussels/ The 5th Edition of the International Meteorological Forum (3-9 November 2008) was organised for the first time outside of France. Inside the prestigious Atomium of Brussels, in Belgium, the event attracted 11% more people than in 2007. Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:50:36 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_success_for_the_international_meteorological_forum_in_brussels/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_city_of_sciences/ The European City of Science was held within the context of the French presidency to the European Union. Organized by the French Ministry of Education and Research, the European City of Science offered an exhibition centre and forum dedicated to all levels of science, from technology to social sciences and humanities. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:55:58 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_city_of_sciences/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_belare_2008-09_team_members_landed_in_utsteinen/ The 14 "First In" members of BELARE 2008-09 arrived in Utsteinen, Antarctica, safe and sound. Following a stop-over at the Russian polar station Novo, they reached the Princess Elisabeth research station on November 11th, in the late afternoon. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:22:25 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/first_belare_2008-09_team_members_landed_in_utsteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/science_teachers_conference/ The fourteenth edition of the Flemish Science Teachers' Conference was held on November 15th in Gent. Sandra Vanhove, Science Education Manager at the International Polar Foundation, attended the event to raise interest about the IPF's education projects amongst the teachers of Belgium's Flanders Region. Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:44:56 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/science_teachers_conference/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_ivan_papanin_ship_leaves_the_port_of_antwerp/ The Russian ice-class cargo ship Ivan Papanin, carrying on board the Princess Elisabeth station's inside systems, left the port of Antwerp on November 14th at 1 pm, local time. After a first stop in Cape Town in about three weeks' time, the ship will reach Antarctica a short while before Christmas time. Sat, 15 Nov 2008 10:49:03 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_ivan_papanin_ship_leaves_the_port_of_antwerp/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_award_at_the_international_adventure_film_festival/ Three days filled with dreams and emotions for the audience of the 30th edition of the International Adventure Film Festival. The chairman of this event, held in Dijon from October 16th-18th, was no other than Nikolay Litau himself, a worldwide-famous Russian navigator. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:51:51 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_award_at_the_international_adventure_film_festival/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/launching_the_last_phase_of_the_princess_elisabeth_station_project/ On Thursday October 16th, the International Polar Foundation (IPF) held its last major press conference before the end of the construction phase of the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station project (full press pack available on the Princess Elisabeth Station website). Before the scaled mock-up of the station's technical core which was built on the Laborelec site (research centre of GDF SUEZ Group), the speakers introduced the objectives set for the BELARE 2008-09 mission and the first science expeditions to start as soon as November 2008. Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:51:55 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/launching_the_last_phase_of_the_princess_elisabeth_station_project/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/sixth_continent_initiative_fellowship_awarded_to_hungarian/ The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) -Sixth Continent Initiative fellowship 2008 award has just been granted to the Hungarian Ramón Hegedüs. The marine environment around Antarctica offers unique possibilities for studying the adaptations of visually-based animal navigation systems and foraging techniques. Currently working on a PhD in statistical and biological physics, this 26-year-old intends to investigate 'The role of polarized skylight in animal navigation and foraging in the Antarctic'. Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:25:01 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/sixth_continent_initiative_fellowship_awarded_to_hungarian/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/we_are_hiring_/ The International Polar Foundation is looking for talented people to join its staff. As a growing organisation, new needs are arising. We need more people on board to start new projects and to carry on with others. We are currentky seeking an Internet & Multimedia Project Manager and a person in charge of the Communications Department. Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:47:59 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/we_are_hiring_/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_ipf_at_the_2008_scar-iasc_meeting/ This year, the 30th edition of the Scientific Committee for Antarctic Research (SCAR) meeting, was co-organized with the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) and the International Polar Year (IPY) 2007-08, with the International Council for Science (ICSU) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) as co-sponsors. Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:56:34 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/the_ipf_at_the_2008_scar-iasc_meeting/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/tunza_2008_another_step_forward_in_youth_participation/ The 2008 edition of the Tunza international children's conference on the environment turned out to be a success. From the 16th to the 21st of June, over 700 children and 300 supervisors from 105 different countries met in Stavanger, Norway, in order to honour environmental issues and initiatives. "Think globally, act locally" as defended by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and Young Agenda 21, the two initiators of this conference. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:32:27 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/tunza_2008_another_step_forward_in_youth_participation/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/dinner_with_h.s.h._prince_albert_ii_of_monaco/ In Belgium for a State visit, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco was the guest of the International Polar Foundation (IPF) for a private dinner, hosted by the Inbev-Baillet Latour Fund at the "Cercle de Lorraine" in Brussels. Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:37:41 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/dinner_with_h.s.h._prince_albert_ii_of_monaco/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_supports_freenergie_house_project/ During a press conference held on June 4, Thierry Touchais, Executive Director of IPF, reiterated the Foundation's support in the Freenergie project which saw the building of an "active" house in the Belgian Ardennes. Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:55:28 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_supports_freenergie_house_project/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_special_prize_for_belgian_energy_and_environment_award_2008/ The 3rd edition of the Energy & Environment Awards took place in Tour & Taxis, in Brussels on June 5th. Among its most faithful partners, the IPF was present to grant the Special International Polar Foundation 2008 Award. Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:44:35 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/ipf_special_prize_for_belgian_energy_and_environment_award_2008/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_at_oecd_forum_2008/ Present at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Forum 2008, Alain Hubert, Founding President of the International Polar Foundation (IPF), opened a keynote session with a speech entitled "On Ice, Bears and Markets in the Silicon Age". Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:58:27 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_at_oecd_forum_2008/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/professor_emeritus_andre_berger/ On Tuesday May 27th, an academic ceremony was held at the Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium, to officially pay homage to Prof. André Berger, a pioneering climatologist and co-founder of the International Polar Foundation. Thu, 29 May 2008 14:11:22 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/professor_emeritus_andre_berger/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/antarctica_inbev-baillet_latour_fellowship_call_for_proposals/ A call for proposals has been launched for the first Antarctica InBev-Baillet Latour Fellowship (ABLEF) Award. The laureate of this award will be allocated a research fund enabling him to carry out his study proposal in, or in the vicinity of the Princess Elisabeth Antarctic research station. Tue, 27 May 2008 14:17:52 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/antarctica_inbev-baillet_latour_fellowship_call_for_proposals/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/arctic_arc_results_presented_to_the_european_space_agency/ On May 19th, polar explorer Alain Hubert, founder of the International Polar Foundation, visited the European Space Agency (ESA) to hand over a unique set of snow-depth measurements which had been collected during his 2007 Arctic crossing. This dataset makes a valuable contribution to the validation programme of ESA's ice mission CryoSat. Tue, 20 May 2008 14:21:16 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/arctic_arc_results_presented_to_the_european_space_agency/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/duet_at_the_abbey_in_brussels/ As announced last week, a fund-raising concert was given on Sunday May 18th in favor of the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica research station. Diana and friends played a vast repertoire of songs, ranging from Mozart operettas to modern jazz duets and Mexican folk songs. Mon, 19 May 2008 14:29:41 +0200 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/duet_at_the_abbey_in_brussels/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_climate_change_award/ For the first time since its creation, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation delivered its "climate change" award to Alain Hubert, founding president of the International Polar Foundation (IPF), for his clairvoyance and commitment towards climate change-related issues. Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:31:39 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/alain_hubert_receives_climate_change_award/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/convincing_the_public_to_use_public_transport/ The Brussels public transport service, STIB/MIVB, is carrying out an ambitious public awareness-raising campaign across the Brussels Capital Region to try and convince drivers to opt for the city's trams, metros and buses rather than take their cars. Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:37:14 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/convincing_the_public_to_use_public_transport/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_last_module_goes_in/ We just lived a historical moment here in Brussels, as we received a phone call from Utsteinen base camp. Alain Hubert phoned to say that the last exterior module was mounted on the Station this afternoon. Tue, 12 Feb 2008 14:50:39 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_last_module_goes_in/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_flag_for_the_princess_elisabeth_polar_station/ Schoolchildren from the Hoogstraten primary school, located near Antwerp, designed and sewed a flag especially dedicated to the new Belgian Station in Antarctica. Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:02:39 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/a_flag_for_the_princess_elisabeth_polar_station/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_east_facade_up/ The Utsteinen workaholics have now completed mounting the exterior modules on the Station's East side. Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:04:37 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_east_facade_up/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_waiting_for_better_weather/ The C-shaped wooden side beams have now all been mounted. Next step involves tackling the exterior metal panels, as soon as the weather permits to do so. Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:33:28 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_waiting_for_better_weather/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_flooring_goes_on/ The building team spent just 5 days building the station's floor. That's roughly 500 m² of pine wood resting upon the metal struts. This rigid progress puts the building team a few days ahead of schedule! Progress has been such that the building team earned a day's rest over the week-end. Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:44:01 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_flooring_goes_on/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_team_earns_a_sleep_in_for_fast_progress/ The building team spent just 5 days building the station's floor. That's roughly 500 m² of pine wood resting upon the metal struts. This rigid progress puts the building team a few days ahead of schedule! Progress has been such that the building team earned a day's rest over the week-end. Mon, 21 Jan 2008 08:50:28 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_team_earns_a_sleep_in_for_fast_progress/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_floor_goes_in/ It is snowing lightly, the sky is overcast, but the sun still pierces through the clouds. A fresh breeze rises now and then upon the Utsteinen ridge, cooling any extremity that has not been covered. It is -12°C, but who knows what the wind chill is. Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:53:28 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_floor_goes_in/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_reaching_for_the_sky/ Building on site continues, no matter what the weather is like. When one activity slows down, another one picks up speed. There are always more than 20 people working up on the ridge and round abouts, and 6 who are out on a traverse between Utsteinen and Crown Bay. More than half the containers are now in Utsteinen. Wed, 16 Jan 2008 09:06:37 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_reaching_for_the_sky/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_cold_winds_chilly_tents/ Since the metal struts have been mounted on the Utsteinen ridge, work on the station has been advancing fast. Neither the weather nor the hard physical work has slowed the workmen down. Mon, 14 Jan 2008 09:09:24 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_cold_winds_chilly_tents/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/early_recognition_of_the_stations_structure/ The Station's metal struts have emerged from the Utsteinen rock in just 3 days. With only two struts left to place, the early stages of the station's pre-construction in Brussels are now fully recognizable. Fri, 11 Jan 2008 09:11:43 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/early_recognition_of_the_stations_structure/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_mounting_the_metal_structure/ Seven people have left on another traverse. The rest of the team is either working on the ridge, filming those working on the ridge, building new bathroom facilities or cooking away to feed the team. Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:13:46 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_mounting_the_metal_structure/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/building_team_arrived_in_utsteinen/ Seventeen new team members arrived on site yesterday, Sunday January 6th. The building of the station starts today. Mon, 07 Jan 2008 09:15:26 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/building_team_arrived_in_utsteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_nieuwe_blanc/ The Utsteinen crew had a costume party on New Year's Eve. Everyone took part in the fun. Fri, 04 Jan 2008 09:17:39 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_nieuwe_blanc/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_sixth_traverse_for_the_new_year/ This Ivan Papanin arrived in Cape Town during the night of December 28. Unloading operations lasted through December 29. Several waste containers and a few heavy drilling pieces were brought back to Cape Town to be disposed of or stored. Wed, 02 Jan 2008 09:24:45 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_sixth_traverse_for_the_new_year/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_interview_with_stephan_dubois_back_from_utsteinen/ Stéphane Dubois, building coordinator for the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica Station, returned to Belgium earlier than foreseen. Mr. Dubois, an inhabitant of the Rochefort region, was supposed to stay in Antarctica until March 9, 2008. The atmospheric conditions, particularly the extreme dryness, forced him to return prematurely: he was back in Brussels on December 21, after having spent 52 days on the white continent. Wed, 02 Jan 2008 09:20:55 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_interview_with_stephan_dubois_back_from_utsteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_securing_the_5th_traverse/ Seven people left the base camp on December 27th to start the 5th traverse. Meanwhile, the rest of team is working on re-assembling the cranes and finishing the garages and the station's foundations. Fri, 28 Dec 2007 09:31:53 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_securing_the_5th_traverse/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_christmas_menu/ The party began with, in stead of the usual hot chocolate that is served on the working grounds, warm wine from "Château Migraine" vintage. Thu, 27 Dec 2007 09:34:19 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_christmas_menu/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_merry_christmas/ Christmas was celebrated on the night of December 24th, close to the way it is feasted in Belgium. The coast team made it back to the base camp on time, after several hours of severe weather. Wed, 26 Dec 2007 09:36:20 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_merry_christmas/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_stormy_weather_hits_east_antarctica/ The second convoy reached Utsteinen on December 21st (7 30 pm), carrying part of the crane and frozen food to last through mid-March 2008. Strong winds and heavy snow falls are coming down on the Eastern region of Antarctica, announcing a white Christmas for the BELARE 2007-2008 team. Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:37:11 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_stormy_weather_hits_east_antarctica/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_containers_parked_up_on_the_ice_shelf/ The coast team has now finished unloading all the containers and machines from the Ivan Papanin. Everything has been neatly arranged in rows up on the ice shelf. The ship is due to leave Crown Bay today, Friday December 21. Fri, 21 Dec 2007 09:39:16 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_containers_parked_up_on_the_ice_shelf/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_first_convoy_reaches_utsteinen/ The first convoy of containers reached the base camp in Utsteinen today (December 19) at 5 pm. The most needed equipment was brought first, comprising of the remaining wood to complete the garage construction. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:41:10 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_first_convoy_reaches_utsteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007_2008_ivan_papanin_has_made_it_to_breid_bay/ The Ivan Papanin cargo ship started making its way through the sea ice on Friday December 14. She was anchored to the sea ice near Breid Bay around 7 pm that night. The exact location has been named Crown Bay (70°S 23°E), because of the shape of a nearby iceberg. Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:44:55 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007_2008_ivan_papanin_has_made_it_to_breid_bay/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_ivan_papanin_soon_to_reach_breid_bay/ The Ivan Papanin ice-class cargo ship carrying aboard the 120 containers of the Princess Elisabeth Station reached 5° East on December 11th. She is progressing smoothly towards the South and is expected to come into Breid Bay around December 14th. Wed, 12 Dec 2007 09:48:12 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_ivan_papanin_soon_to_reach_breid_bay/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_drilling_and_fixing_anchoring_bars_into_the_ridge/ Working on top of the Nunatak is not an enviable job: the wind comes in from the east and constantly blows your way. Some time ago, the thermometer on top of the rocks indicated -24 degrees Celsius, with gusts of wind reaching 50 km/hour. Tue, 11 Dec 2007 09:51:23 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_drilling_and_fixing_anchoring_bars_into_the_ridge/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_exploring_measuring_and_drilling_around_utsteinen/ Alain and Dieter have been measuring geodetic points for the National Geographic Institute of Belgium, and are happy with their results to date. Geodesy is the study of the size and shape of the Earth, its field of gravity, and such varying phenomena as the motion of the magnetic poles and the tides. Apart from having measured existing points that were left by the Japanese expedition of 1985, they have also installed new measuring points for a satellite survey. Thu, 06 Dec 2007 09:53:16 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_exploring_measuring_and_drilling_around_utsteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_ivan_papanin_ship_leaves_cape_town/ At the end of November, the Ivan Papanin arrived in Cape Town for a last stop-over before leaving for Antarctica. The ice-class cargo ship filled up on fuel and food supplies for the crew and loaded the last containers full of frozen goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, gas for the vehicles at Utsteinen, wood and other small elements of use on the building site. The Ivan Papanin left South Africa on 1 December. Tue, 04 Dec 2007 09:54:59 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_the_ivan_papanin_ship_leaves_cape_town/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_expedition_program/ Scheduled over 4.5 months, the BELARE 2007-2008 expedition aims to build the Princess Elisabeth Station's outer shell and set up the seven remaining wind turbines. Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:01:53 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_expedition_program/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_daily_life_at_usteinen/ Another day in Utsteinen, another day of work. Greeted by the sunlight early in the morning, the working men climb out of their tents as early as 6 am. Thu, 29 Nov 2007 09:57:38 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_daily_life_at_usteinen/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/discover_the_fantasy/ The seventh edition of the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival was inaugurated in Bruges on November 22nd. This year, in exclusivity, the IPF contributed to the project, by setting up the DAMOCLES exhibition, the model of the Princess Elisabeth station and several explanatory posters. The festival is open to the public until January 13th. Mon, 26 Nov 2007 10:05:15 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/discover_the_fantasy/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_visit_to_asuka_station/ The building team has been working away securing the anchoring points of the station and making headway on constructing the garage. Alain Hubert and a few other team members have retrieved some useful material from the abandoned Japanese station, Asuka. The Ivan papanin should arrive at Breid Bay in less than a month. Fri, 23 Nov 2007 10:06:27 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_visit_to_asuka_station/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/dr._susan_solomon_laureate_of_the_georges_lemaitre_2007_prize/ After having won the prestigeous Blue PLanet Prize in 2004, Dr. Susan Solomon was granted the Georges Lemaître Prize 2007 for "her pioneering role in the discovery of the ozone hole and her deep commitment to science in the service of mankind" on November 6th. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 10:09:41 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/dr._susan_solomon_laureate_of_the_georges_lemaitre_2007_prize/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_trip_through_the_mountains/ With a work schedule ranging from 7 am to noon and 1 pm to 7 pm, work is progressing at a fine pace in Antarctica. Sunday, however, is a day for relaxation, laundry and travel. Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:13:51 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_trip_through_the_mountains/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/buy_a_dream_tree_on_ebay.be/ Auctions have started on eBay.be for the seven trees being sold in favour of the International Polar Foundation (IPF). Mon, 19 Nov 2007 10:40:02 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/buy_a_dream_tree_on_ebay.be/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_comfortable_base_camp/ Four new team members have reached Utsteinen Base Camp: Gaëlle, Toto, Daniel and Francis. Twenty-four people are now on site, bringing the team to a fully operational number to complete the first phase of the expedition. Mon, 19 Nov 2007 10:14:00 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_a_comfortable_base_camp/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_take_off/ On October 15th, the new BELARE (Belgian Antarctic Expedition) team gathered in Brussels for an informative meeting at the Belgian Military Hospital. BELARE 2007-2008 will build the new Belgian research station in Antarctica: Princess Elisabeth Antarctica. Sun, 18 Nov 2007 10:45:13 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_take_off/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/science_and_technology_at_xpo2pi/ From October 5th 2007 to January 6th 2008, the Royal Museum of Art and History in Brussels opens its doors to the XPO2PI exposition. This event celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Belgian association "Jeunesses Scientifiques" Fri, 16 Nov 2007 10:18:03 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/science_and_technology_at_xpo2pi/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_summary_of_activities/ In our last report, it was mentioned that all the containers had been recovered from Breid Bay and that the camp site was slowly filling up with equipment. The building team is preparing the Utsteinen Ridge for the station's anchoring points and making progress on constructing the wind turbines. Thu, 15 Nov 2007 10:20:50 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_summary_of_activities/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_hammar_side_loader_back_on_track/ Yesterday, the Hammar side loader had gotten stuck in a small crevasse. It is has now been successfully freed. Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:21:56 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_hammar_side_loader_back_on_track/ http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_first_progress_in_utsteinen/ A first report was received from Alain Hubert and the building team in Antarctica. Twenty-one people are now on site, working away on the wind turbines and getting started on the station's anchoring points. Mon, 12 Nov 2007 10:25:33 +0100 http://www.polarfoundation.org/news/news_detail/belare_2007-2008_first_progress_in_utsteinen/