Astrobiologist Dale Andersen Returns to Antarctica for 2026 Expedition

Dale Andersen, a prominent astrobiologist, will commence his research expedition at Lake Untersee in Antarctica from early January through the end of February 2026. Coordinated through the SETI Institute’s Carl Sagan Center, Andersen will lead an international team of graduate students and scientists from the United States, Canada, and Austria. This year marks another chapter in Andersen’s long-standing commitment to exploring extreme environments and their implications for understanding life on other planets.

The expedition will begin with travel to Cape Town, South Africa, where the team is scheduled to arrive in early January. They will depart for Antarctica around January 6, 2026, and return by the end of February. The journey to Lake Untersee will start from the Novo Airbase, located at approximately 70.823° S, 11.641° E. This facility is managed by Ultima Antarctic Logistics and serves as a critical launching point for researchers heading into the icy wilderness.

Once on the ice, Andersen and his team will navigate through challenging conditions, often characterized by low visibility and harsh winds. Their closest neighbors will be the research stations at Schirmacher Oasis, including Maitri, operated by India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, and Novolazarevskaya (‘Novo Station’), managed by the Russian Antarctic Expedition.

Exploring Lake Untersee’s Unique Ecosystem

Lake Untersee, located within the mountains of Queen Maud Land, presents a unique and largely unexplored ecosystem. The region’s severe weather can include winds reaching up to 110 mph, creating an inhospitable environment. Despite these challenges, the lake itself provides a remarkable window into Earth’s ancient biosphere, dominated by microbial life, particularly cyanobacteria. These organisms are believed to have played a crucial role in Earth’s early atmosphere by producing oxygen through photosynthesis.

Research in this extreme environment is vital for understanding not only Earth’s past but also for guiding the search for extraterrestrial life. The findings from Lake Untersee may offer insights into the potential for similar ecosystems on Mars or the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn. Andersen emphasizes the importance of this research in advancing public understanding of planetary science and the resilience of life.

The expedition will also contribute to preparations for future off-world explorations. Insights gained from Lake Untersee will inform the work of crews participating in NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and eventually explore other celestial bodies.

Continuing a Legacy of Exploration

Dale Andersen’s commitment to exploration has been recognized with the Explorers Club Finn Ronne Memorial Award, which honors his contributions to advancing public knowledge of science and exploration. The Explorers Club noted that Andersen’s work continues to inspire future generations.

This upcoming field season at Lake Untersee is not just about scientific discovery; it is also an opportunity for education and outreach. Andersen’s previous expeditions have included collaborations with various institutions, and he plans to share updates and findings throughout this field season.

To set the stage for this journey, viewers can watch a short film titled “Whispers Beneath the Ice: Discovering the Hidden Life of Lake Untersee.” This film offers a glimpse into the stark beauty of the region and the potential discoveries that await.

As Dale Andersen and his team prepare to embark on this challenging expedition, they aim to uncover new knowledge that will enhance our understanding of life on Earth and beyond. Their work in the inhospitable landscapes of Antarctica will contribute significantly to the ongoing exploration of our planet and the search for life elsewhere in the universe.