The article presents quality assessments of using the ensemble approach to produce long-term meteorological forecast in the Western Arctic with a one-month advance. The assessment of retrospective forecasts’ quality of the sea level pressure anomalies field and surface air temperature anomalies has been performed for 2010–2018. The ensemble forecast for the second month was made using two methods. The f irst method is the forecast of the mean field of meteorological parameters for all ensemble members. The second method is the forecast of the mean field made by the best class selected from all ensemble members by the clustering procedure. The best class was selected by comparing macrosynoptic process evolution of the first forecast month of each selected class with the actual observations. In the area considered, which is bounded by coordinates from 20º W to 100º E and from 60º N to 80º N, 108 retrospective forecasts were made. As an independent series, the forecast success for 2018 and 2024 was analyzed using two ensemble forecasting techniques and a synoptic-statistical method (the Wangenheim–Geers macro-circulation method). Three estimates of the forecast quality were obtained — the mean square error, the correlation coefficient between the forecast and actual fields of meteorological parameters, and the coefficient of geometric similarity of the forecast and actual fields of the meteorological parameter. The estimation of quality was made for two parameters — sea level pressure and surface air temperature. The highest quality of forecasts using the best class method is observed in the summer season, and the RMS error of forecasts is minimal at this time. The forecast by the method of all ensemble members is preferable in the winter season. The results show that, in general, the best-class ensemble forecasts are more accurate for forecasting the phase of pressure anomalies, while for forecasting the magnitude of temperature and pressure anomalies, it is preferable to use the forecasts for all ensemble members. For 2018 and 2024, both ensemble forecast methods showed higher forecast quality scores than the synoptic-statistical method.

Estimates are presented for the share of anthropogenic heat flux caused by heating, based on assuming that anthropogenic heat flux depends on outdoor air temperature and that buildings comply with the thermophysical standards specified in the construction regulations. Using the OpenStreetMap web mapping platform, the Yandex Maps service, and GIS housing and communal services, building models were constructed of 12 cities and settlements located in northern Russia. The volumes of all buildings and the surface areas of their enclosing structures were calculated. Three algorithms for estimating the anthropogenic heat flux are considered. The first algorithm uses the concept of normative heat transfer resistance of enclosing structures. The second is based on the normalized value of the specific heat protection characteristic of a building. The third uses the normalized specific characteristic of heat energy consumption for heating and ventilation of the building. It is proposed to use the average anthropogenic heat flux estimate obtained by all algorithms. anthropogenic heat flux is estimated from an administrative and urbanized area. During the heating period the anthropogenic heat flux density from the urbanized area per 1°C difference between indoor and outdoor air temperatures ranges from 0.31 to 1.75 W/(m²·°C). The anthropogenic heat fluxdensity from the urbanized area for the average heating period temperature is located within the range where the lower boundary is estimated between 9.60 and 19.5 W/m², and the upper boundary between 30.0 and 61.2 W/m², depending on the settlement. In this case the total emitted anthropogenic energy (in PJ) from the administrative area is equal to 8.29–20.7 for Surgut; for Yakutsk 9.57–23.6; Arkhangelsk 7.37–15.4; Murmansk — 5.16–11.6; Norilsk — 2.99–9.09; Vorkuta, Apatite and Salekhard — 1.29–4.80; Naryan-Mar — 0.961–1.92; Dudinka — 0.537–1.42; Tiksi and Dixon’s — 0.247–0.681. The anthropogenic heat flux density directed downward toward the underlying surface during the heating season is in the range of 1.20–1.96 W/m². Values of anthropogenic energy averaged over the heating periods 2013–2018 and 2018–2023 are given. Maps of the spatial distribution of the anthropogenic heat f lux density for Vorkuta and Apatite are presented.

The Arctic seas are subdivided by the characteristic features of the ice regime into natural areas identified in the course of many years of observations and research by various scientists. At present, the ice cover of the Arctic seas is traditionally determined relative to such areas, identified in 1972 at the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute. The ice-free period has some advantages over ice cover; for example, its start and end dates are an important ice characteristic. However, it is not always possible to determine the ice-free period for a large area of the sea since ice rarely disappears over its entire water area. In addition, climate change has led to the boundaries of some previously identified areas not fully corresponding to parts of the sea with uniform ice conditions. Warming in the Arctic has led to the southern waters of the Laptev Sea and the southwest of the East Siberian Sea becoming free of ice almost every year in recent decades, while in their northern part the ice-free period does not occur in some years. Therefore, for a more accurate dating of the ice-free period for the Laptev and East Siberian seas, this article proposes making some additions to the traditional zoning. The increase in the duration of the ice-free period in different parts of the seas began at different times, on average around 2000. To describe this process in the article, the time period from 1991 to 2023 was divided into three equal eleven-year periods. For each of them, the values of the duration of the ice-free period were calculated. The data analysis showed that the duration of the ice-free period in all parts of the Arctic seas in the second period (2002–2012) increased significantly compared to the first period (1991–2001). The increase ranged from 13 to 88 days, depending on the area of the sea. Over the past 11 years (2013–2023), the duration of the ice-free period in the Kara, Laptev, and northwestern part of the East Siberian Sea has increased by 8–18 days compared to the second time interval (2002–2012). In the southwestern and eastern parts of the East Siberian Sea, as well as in the Chukchi Sea, the ice-free period has not increased over the past 11 years, although compared to the first time period (1991–2001), it remains quite large.

This study seeks to demonstrate the relationship between magnetic anomalies and geological structure of Precambrian complexes of the Bunger Oasis and Highjump Archipelago, East Antarctica. Aeromagnetic data effectively maps geological units, revealing distinct magnetic signatures for Neoarchean and Palaeo Mesoproterozoic terrains. This provides the possibility of significantly improving existing geological maps, particularly in poorly mapped areas like the Highjump Archipelago. Magnetic anomaly intensity and strike correlate with rock composition and regional structural trends, enabling better differentiation of lithological units like magnetic metapelites and non-magnetic metapsammites. Tilt derivative calculations enhance structural mapping by linking magnetic sources to specific rock suites. As an example, a prominent northeast-striking belt of positive magnetic anomalies marks a key boundary between Archean and Mesoproterozoic complexes. Variations in the belt’s strike suggest complex tectonic history, including potential fault contacts. Intrusive bodies exhibit complex magnetic characteristics. The Paz Cove intrusion displays a negative anomaly likely due to reversed remanent magnetization, while the Algae Lake intrusion has both positive and negative anomalies reflecting varying rock compositions. The Gabbro intrusions in the northeastern part of the Highjump Archipelago correlate with positive anomalies, while the intense negative anomaly over the Kashalot Island gabbroic intrusion suggests reversed magnetization. This study aims to produce a structural (tectonic) map of the Bunger Oasis and Highjump Archipelago by analyzing magnetic anomaly data collected by an unmanned aerial vehicle during the 69th RAE, combined with existing geological information for the area. The study highlights the value of UAV aeromagnetic surveys for detailed geological mapping in challenging environments, providing crucial insights into East Antarctica’s Precambrian history.

In view of the continuing human expansion in Antarctica, it is crucial to implement a wide range of measures to effectively protect the natural environment and uphold the fundamental principles of the Antarctic Treaty system. Soil is the most important component of all terrestrial ecosystems, which plays a crucial role as the spatial basis of ecosystems. Despite the considerable research performed in different sectors of Antarctica, soils and soil-like bodies of Antarctica remain poorly investigated. The aim of this study is to investigate the processes of biogenic accumulation of substances and biogenic-abiogenic interactions in the soils of the Pravda Coast and the Haswell Archipelago, East Antarctica — vicinities of the Antarctic station Mirny. Field observations and laboratory analyses were conducted, focusing on determining the chemical composition and levels of organic matter in the soils. It was found that the soils exhibit a moderately acidic to near-neutral pH. High levels of organic carbon accumulation were recorded on Haswell Island, influenced by ornithogenic factors. Unlike most soils in East Antarctica, these soils display a presence of humus-like plasma. The soils studied are characterized by low (or moderate) levels of contamination, according to Igeo (geoaccumulation index); however, an increase in pollutant accumulation rates is observed in ornithogenic habitats and on the surfaces of peat horizons.

The problem of conservation and study of small urbanized water bodies in the Arctic regions of Russia is quite acute, given their economic, biological and recreational significance. The article is devoted to the study of the hydrobiological features of Lake Kontokki, on the eastern coast of which the single-industry town of Kostomuksha (northern Karelia) is located, the main industrial enterprise of which, the Kostomuksha Mining and Processing Plant, makes a significant contribution to the economic development of the Republic of Karelia and north-west Russia. To solve the problem, a study of the current state of zooplankton communities, macrozoobenthos and ichthyofauna of the reservoir was conducted in 2024. The main dynamic factors affecting the ecosystem of the reservoir are associated with population growth and expanding urban infrastructure. These include increasing recreational load, as well as an increase in municipal, storm water runoff and melt water from the city. The object of the study is a small urban reservoir located within the Arctic zone of Russia. To achieve the goal, comprehensive hydrobiological studies were conducted using generally accepted laboratory techniques. The quantitative characteristics and species composition of the planktofauna, benthofauna and ichthyofauna of the reservoir under modern conditions were determined. Features of the development of the plankton fauna and macrozoobenthos of Lake Kontokki are primarily due to the geographical location of the object, its hydrological features, and the influence of anthropogenic factors. According to the level of quantitative development of zooplankton and macrozoobenthos, Lake Kontokki is characterized as an oligotrophic reservoir. The zooplankton biomass fluctuates within 0.6–0.8 g/m3, benthos 0.6–2.0 g/m2. The zooplankton community is formed by representatives of two dominant groups (rotifers, crustaceans), which in equal shares form the species richness (44 taxa). A significant number of oligochaetes and chironomid larvae tolerant to habitat conditions were found in the lake sediments. More than 70 % of the macroinvertebrate taxa in the benthos are represented by insect larvae (Ephemeroptera, Diptera, Trichoptera). According to the species composition of the ichthyofauna (8 species), the lake belongs to the water bodies of the first fishery category. The results obtained can provide additional information for complex environmental monitoring of urbanized water bodies in the northern regions of the taiga zone.

Seventy years ago, in 1955, the world’s first experimental ice basin was built at the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute in Leningrad, enabling model-based analysis of ice resistance to ships sailing in ice-infested waters. The ice basin construction was preceded by a twenty-year period of attempts to adapt model experiments to ice conditions. These studies were undertaken by V.I. Neganov, L.M. Nogid and V.S. Nazarov. It became clear that in order to design and build an ice basin it was necessary to develop a physical ice model, as well as a theory of modeling and extrapolation of model scale data to full size. The theory of modeling and the necessary similarity criteria were developed by Professor L.M. Nogid and Academician Yu.A. Shimansky. Now these criteria are used in all the ice basins of the world. The paper considers the difference in approaches to modeling suggested by the above-mentioned researchers. The development of modeling criteria and test data scaling methods was not a short story because the choice of one or another version of theory was substantially dependent on the physical model of ice applied in the ice basin. Initially, L.M. Nogid and AАRI administration thought of using an artificial ice cover made of paraffin mixed with animal oil. The final choice of modeling criteria became possible only after V.V. Lavrov had developed procedures for preparing simulated ice followed by exploration of its properties, and the feasibility of icebreakers’ model tests in such ice had been proved in the Vedeneev VNIIG water tank. Based on archival documents and publications that are difficult to access due to security classification, the paper examines the history of similarity criteria development for the ship motion in ice in model and full scale. The elaboration of these criteria enabled AАRI to develop and commission the first ice basin in the world.

The softening climate and ice conditions in the Arctic have led to a significantly increase in the associated research and business activity. The Arctic potential attracts the attention of states, and they seek to formulate efficient strategies for using the emerging resources and opportunities. The purpose of this work is to identify signs of intensification and diversification of the Arctic policy of states in the late 20th — first quarter of the 21st century, which are reflected in scientific publications. The study uses the works of experts who have studied the manifestations and dynamics of climate change in the Arctic region, the associated natural, political and socio-economic opportunities and threats. A systematic approach is used to consider the interests, connections and relations of states. Through synthesis, analysis, comparison and generalization, trends in the development of the Arctic and the evolution of Arctic strategies are identified. It is concluded that the authors actively considered the climate agenda. In the interdisciplinary field, the causes, nature of climate change, their impact on natural ecosystems and living conditions of the population of the Arctic region are identified. Since the early 2000s, the vector of scientific research related to the opportunities that are opening up due to the melting of ice in the Arctic has begun to gain momentum — the development of communication routes and transport logistics, mining and industrial construction in the Arctic latitudes. Along with interaction in the field of Arctic research and development, international rivalry is developing. The desire to protect their interests and expand geopolitical influence leads to the militarization of the Arctic policy of various countries. Assessing the crisis of trust between countries and the presence of threats, researchers note the lack of effective instruments and mechanisms for regulating interstate relations and the need for joint efforts to achieve peace and security. The intensification of economic development of the Arctic region is inevitable, and the responsibility of countries is to prevent threats leading to the destruction of its nature through new scientific, technical and organizational means.