The first Russian cellular network has begun operating in Antarctica. It was launched by MTS mobile network operator, TASS reports. The GSM base station appeared in the territory belonging to the Progress Antarctic station. It is an integral part of the project, which is being implemented as part of cooperation with the Russian Antarctic expedition.
MTS assures that a stable signal is available both in residential and office premises of the station, as well as the airfield and the pier. All members of the expedition can now contact their relatives in the mainland by cell phones. They can also call their colleagues in Antarctica.
Another important function of the cellular signal is the ability to find the location of polar explorers during work in the vicinity of the Progress station.
The work of the base station is not affected by severe frosts and winds. The key nodes have dual redundancy in case one of the sets is damaged. The network can be used by users of international networks, which have roaming agreements with MTS.