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Princess Elisabeth Antarctica Research Station
Project overview
Developed under the BELARE 2007–2008 programme led by explorer Alain Hubert, the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica Research Station represents a landmark in sustainable polar infrastructure. Designed as a high‑performance, energy‑autonomous building, it supports scientific research during the southern summer seasons. Constructed between 2007 and 2009, the station has become an international reference for sustainable design in extreme environments, attracting interest from organisations such as NASA and ESA.
Scope of works
BESIX acted as the main construction partner, involved from the earliest project stages. Its Engineering Department contributed to the conceptual design and coordinated the full off‑site construction process in Belgium, including logistics, planning, sequencing, testing and pre‑assembly in Brussels. On site, during the short austral summer, BESIX served as lead contractor, responsible for final assembly and construction under extreme climatic constraints. Works included the full structural and technical construction, delivering a precision‑engineered, energy‑efficient and wind‑resistant building envelope anchored to the Antarctic bedrock.
Key highlights
First zero‑emission research station in Antarctica
Energy‑autonomous design with efficient resource use and water recycling
Designed to operate in extreme polar climatic conditions
Off‑site prefabrication, pre-assembly testing in Belgium
Fast‑track on‑site construction during limited summer window
Recognised international reference project for future polar and space missions
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