Since the first International Geophysical Year (IGY 1957) scientists have been using geophysical techniques to find out more about the polar regions. Although GPS, seismic, magnetic and other measurements measure different aspects of the planet, many of the challenges of keeping such systems running in the extreme environments of the polar regions are common to all systems.

Solar power is relatively reliable over the summer months, but, of course, is not appropriate during the long hours of darkness in the Arctic and Antarctic winters. Wind power has traditionally been unreliable, but is now becoming more successful. High capacity batteries provide a possible, albeit expensive, alternative. In all cases, minimising power requirements is important and solid-state memory technology is improving the capacity and reliability of autonomous systems world-wide.

Communication technologies, mostly satellite based, are becoming more widespread. These allow scientists access to the precious recorded data without having to make further visits to the site. This obvious advantage has to be balanced against the cost of satellite receivers/transmitters and data transmittion ('sat-phone calls') and the increase in complexity and power consumption of the remote site.

If you have experience in successfully running autonomous recording systems in remote environments, please contribute information or links (via the web-site administrator) to the instrumentation page. If you are embarking on a new field project and wish to communicate with those who have relevant experience, e-mail one of the polenet convenors via the contacts and links page to be put in touch with someone suitable.