ENEA begins preparations for Antarctic research campaign in New Zealand

Preparations for the 2026-27 Antarctic research campaign of the National Antarctic Research Program (PNRA) have commenced in Christchurch, New Zealand. Following personnel selection and training in Italy, the initiative is moving into its active phase in the historic gateway city.

The preparations coincided with the annual meeting of the Executive Committee of the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (COMNAP). Gianluca Bianchi Fasani of ENEA’s Antarctic Technical Unit represented the PNRA and chaired the session, a role held by Italy for the first time in over thirty years.

International stakeholders and COMNAP members discussed strategic topics for polar research, including international cooperation, scientific priorities, and operational challenges ahead of the 2032-33 International Polar Year. The meetings also focused on the logistical role of gateway cities for Antarctic operations.