by Ria Olivier | Feb 26, 2026 | Antarctica, SA Agulhas II, SANAE, SANAP, Take-Over Operations
From December 2025 to February 2026, the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) embarks on its annual takeover voyage to relieve and resupply SANAE IV in Queen Maud Land, Antarctica. This critical mission ensures a seamless transition between overwintering and incoming teams, sustaining South Africa’s year-round scientific presence in Antarctica. More than a logistical operation, the voyage represents a coordinated national effort — uniting government officials, scientists, aviation specialists, maritime crew, engineers, and support teams — all working together in one of the most demanding environments on Earth.
At the core of the transition are the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) takeover personnel, who oversee inspections, infrastructure assessments, compliance requirements, and environmental protocols at SANAE IV. Their work ensures that power generation, life-support systems, communications, and safety procedures remain fully operational for the year ahead. Supporting the operation from sea to ice is the skilled helicopter team from Ultimate Heli, who transport people and cargo between the vessel and the base with precision in narrow Antarctic weather windows. (Photo: DFFE takeover personnel with Shiraan Watson -DCO)
The voyage south is safely guided by the Captain Roland Clutties and crew of the S.A. Agulhas II, whose expertise navigating the Southern Ocean and pack ice ensures the secure transport of passengers, fuel, equipment, and supplies. Onboard, the chefs and stewards keep teams energised with warm meals throughout the journey. Meanwhile, bulldozer operators and mechanics prepare for ice-shelf operations and CAT train traverses that will move bulk cargo inland to the station once the ship reaches the ice edge. (Photo, Captain with part of off duty crew and UJ reserach team)
L-R: Ultimate Heli Team, Bulldozers and drivers’ with SANAE Chefs, S.A. Agulhas II Chefs on board
Science continues throughout the voyage. Research teams conduct geology, oceanographic, biological, and environmental studies enroute and on Antarctica, collecting critical data on the continent and the Southern Ocean and their role in global climate systems. Specialists from the South African Weather Service gather atmospheric and ocean measurements that strengthen forecasting models and support operational safety for maritime and aviation activities. Together, these partnerships reflect the collaborative spirit that makes South Africa’s Antarctic programme possible — ensuring SANAE IV remains operational, sustainable, and ready for another year of discovery.
by Ria Olivier | Feb 12, 2026 | Antarctica, Research, SANAE, SANAP, Science
The End: From Field Data to Global Impact
By early February 2026, the SANAP field campaign entered its final phase, completing measurements and preparing for extraction ahead of worsening weather.
Temporary GNSS stations along the calving front were recovered, allowing detailed mapping of ice velocities across the ice shelf. Advanced radar surveys also measured ice thickness and internal crystal orientation, improving models of ice flow and fracture behaviour.
Seismic equipment was retrieved after weeks of recording, capturing data on both controlled signals and natural fracture events. These datasets will support detailed imaging of ice-shelf structure and zones of weakness.
As severe weather approached, the team secured equipment, dismantled installations, and restored the camp site, marking the successful completion of a productive campaign.
The project’s findings will improve predictions of Antarctic ice loss and future sea-level rise, with implications for global climate systems, coastal communities, and ecosystems. As fieldwork ends, long-term data analysis begins.
Full Article
by Ria Olivier | Feb 10, 2026 | Announcement, Antarctica, Overwintering Team, SANAE
The S.A. Agulhas II departed to Antarctica on 24 December 2025. The 65th South African National Antarctic Expedition team (SANAE 65 was on board the vessel. The S65 team with be replacing the S64 team during this Antarctic relief voyage. The takeover function took place last night at SANAE IV.
65th South African National Antarctic Expedition team (SANAE 65)
Back l-r: Ndiphiwe Peza, Lungisa Qiniso Mkhosana Zungu, Akani Tshabalala,
Toko Mdleleni, Yanga Jonas, Samukelisiwe Mthembu, Anele Magobiyane
Front l-r: Lutho Mkhangazi, Nkhumeleni Oscar Radzhadzhi
Team Leader: Lungisa Qiniso Mkhosana Zungu
Deputy Team leader: Lutho Mkhangazi
Photo taken on S.A. Agulhas II in Cape Town Harbour 24 December 2025
by Ria Olivier | Oct 2, 2025 | Antarctica, Engineering, Jobs, Research, SANAE, Science
Programme: Space Science: Volunteer
This is a unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment. We are currently assembling a team to participate in the annual relief expedition to SANAE IV, Antarctica. The SANAE IV station in Antarctica lies at 71°S, 2°W – 4280 km from East Pier in Cape Town Harbour. (Photo above taken in 2022 during the annual relief voyage)
Successful candidates will embark on the SA Agulhas II, South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel, for a voyage of approximately 14 days to Antarctica. Upon arrival, they will be stationed at the SANAE IV research base for the entire relief period. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the Group Leader/Senior Engineer, assisting with critical infrastructure maintenance, scientific instrument servicing, and logistical operations during the expedition.
Voyage Dates: 9 December 2025 – 9 February 2026 (TBC)
For more information: Click Here
by Ria Olivier | Aug 9, 2025 | Antarctica, Gough Island, Humanities, International Days, Legacy, Marion Island, SANAE, Southern Ocean, Women in Science
Celebrating the Women of SANAP this Women’s Month
Ukubhiyozela Amabhinqa SANAP kule Nyanga Yabafazi
Sibungaza Abesifazane SANAP Kule Nyanga Yabesifazane
Ho Keteka Basali SANAP Kgweding ya Basadi
Ons Vier die Vroue van SANAP in Vrouemaand
Each year on the 9th of August, South Africans of all backgrounds, races and cultural groups join together in celebrating National Women’s Day. This significant day, and the month of August as a whole, offers us the opportunity to honour the remarkable women who continue to shape the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). From overwintering team members braving the extremes of Antarctica, Marion and Gough Islands, to the researchers expanding our understanding of climate, ocean, and biodiversity systems — their contributions are integral to SANAP’s mission.
We also pay tribute to the women behind the scenes: administrators, logistics coordinators, construction workers, and technical staff who ensure the success of every expedition and the operation of our remote bases. These women embody resilience, leadership, and innovation in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, SANAP proudly acknowledges and thanks all women — past and present — whose dedication and excellence drive our programme forward.
by Ria Olivier | Feb 11, 2025 | Announcement, Antarctica, Overwintering Team, SANAE
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) proudly announces the members of the SANAE 64 Overwintering Team, who will be stationed at the SANAE IV research base in Antarctica for the 2024-2025 season. These dedicated individuals will brave the extreme conditions of the Antarctic winter, conducting essential scientific research and maintaining the operations of the base. (Image below taken at Cape Town Harbour before leaving for SANAEIV)
Meet the SANAE 64 Team
The SANAE 64 team comprises experts from various disciplines, including meteorology, engineering, medicine, and communications. Each member plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of South Africa’s Antarctic research programme.
SNR Meteorological Technician / Team Leader: Mbulaheni Kelcey Maewashe – SAWS
Electronics Engineer /Deputy Team Leader: Nivek Ghazi – SANSA
Medical Doctor: Dr Sihle Mpho Lawana – DFFE
Mechanical Engineer: Nkululeko Welcome Khoza – DFFE
Communications Engineer: Athenkosi Mabope – DFFE
Electronics Engineer: Geomarr van Tonder – SANSA
Instrumentation Technician: Allowed Tumelo Seepane –DFFE
Diesel Mechanic: Alian Stuart Jacobs – DFFE
Electro Mechanical Engineer: Lebogang James Tsime –DFFE
The SANAE 64 team will continue vital research initiatives, including climate monitoring, atmospheric studies, and geological surveys. They will also ensure the maintenance and functionality of the SANAE IV base throughout the long winter months. Overwintering in Antarctica is both a privilege and a challenge. The team will face months of extreme cold, isolation, and 24-hour darkness during the winter period. Their resilience, teamwork, and dedication are essential in continuing South Africa’s scientific contributions to global research efforts.
Follow Their Journey
Throughout their mission, the SANAE 64 team will provide updates on their work and experiences in Antarctica. Follow SANAP on social media and stay tuned for insights into life at SANAEIV.
We wish the SANAE 64 team a successful and safe expedition on this incredible journey!
At the core of the transition are the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) takeover personnel, who oversee inspections, infrastructure assessments, compliance requirements, and environmental protocols at SANAE IV. Their work ensures that power generation, life-support systems, communications, and safety procedures remain fully operational for the year ahead. Supporting the operation from sea to ice is the skilled helicopter team from Ultimate Heli, who transport people and cargo between the vessel and the base with precision in narrow Antarctic weather windows. (Photo: DFFE takeover personnel with Shiraan Watson -DCO)
The voyage south is safely guided by the Captain Roland Clutties and crew of the S.A. Agulhas II, whose expertise navigating the Southern Ocean and pack ice ensures the secure transport of passengers, fuel, equipment, and supplies. Onboard, the chefs and stewards keep teams energised with warm meals throughout the journey. Meanwhile, bulldozer operators and mechanics prepare for ice-shelf operations and CAT train traverses that will move bulk cargo inland to the station once the ship reaches the ice edge. (Photo, Captain with part of off duty crew and UJ reserach team)
By early February 2026, the SANAP field campaign entered its final phase, completing measurements and preparing for extraction ahead of worsening weather.
Back l-r: Ndiphiwe Peza, Lungisa Qiniso Mkhosana Zungu, Akani Tshabalala,
Toko Mdleleni, Yanga Jonas, Samukelisiwe Mthembu, Anele Magobiyane
Front l-r: Lutho Mkhangazi, Nkhumeleni Oscar Radzhadzhi
Team Leader: Lungisa Qiniso Mkhosana Zungu
Deputy Team leader: Lutho Mkhangazi
Photo taken on S.A. Agulhas II in Cape Town Harbour 24 December 2025
Programme: Space Science: Volunteer 
This is a unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment. We are currently assembling a team to participate in the annual relief expedition to SANAE IV, Antarctica. The SANAE IV station in Antarctica lies at 71°S, 2°W – 4280 km from East Pier in Cape Town Harbour. (Photo above taken in 2022 during the annual relief voyage)
Successful candidates will embark on the SA Agulhas II, South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel, for a voyage of approximately 14 days to Antarctica. Upon arrival, they will be stationed at the SANAE IV research base for the entire relief period. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the Group Leader/Senior Engineer, assisting with critical infrastructure maintenance, scientific instrument servicing, and logistical operations during the expedition.
Each year on the 9th of August, South Africans of all backgrounds, races and cultural groups join together in celebrating 
We also pay tribute to the women behind the scenes: administrators, logistics coordinators, construction workers, and technical staff who ensure the success of every expedition and the operation of our remote bases. These women embody resilience, leadership, and innovation in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
Meet the SANAE 64 Team
SNR Meteorological Technician / Team Leader: Mbulaheni Kelcey Maewashe – SAWS
