You're reading: Ukrainian scientists discover more hydrocarbons in western Antarctica

Ukrainian scientists have discovered a new hydrocarbon province close to Ukraine's Academician Vernadsky station in the west of Antarctica, according to a statement posted on the government's Web site with reference to the State Agency for Science, Innovation and Information Technology.

“As a result of geoelectric sounding in 2012, four prospective oil deposits have been discovered and mapped. Their total area is about 900 square km, which is also confirmed by satellites,” reads the statement.

Ukrainian scientists also found prospective gas hydrate deposits in the western Antarctic region.

“The availability of a number of satellite-confirmed prospective gas hydrate anomalous zones exceeding those previously detected by seismic methods signals that their actual reserves are by 25-30% higher than previously estimated. Thus, the region could be classified as the most promising area for further research,” reads the statement.

According to the agency, in order to strengthen Ukraine’s presence in Antarctica, the country plans to expand the area of scientific interests with the gradual creation of a network of seasonal bases. In future, a new all-the-year-round station is planned to be built in another part of the Antarctic region.

“Ukraine’s scientific presence in the Antarctic region ensures our state’s participation in possible allocation of resources in future,” reads the statement.

As was reported, Ukraine’s Academician Vladimir Vernadsky station in Antarctica located on Galindez Island began work on February 7, 1996. Prior to that, the station was called ‘Faraday’ and belonged to the United Kingdom.