First woman to lead Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition

Meteorologist Anjelika Hanchuk has been appointed Head of the 31st Ukrainian Antarctic Expedition (2026–2027) – becoming the first woman to lead a year-long mission at Akademik Vernadsky Station.

Anjelika previously worked at the station during the 27th expedition (2022–2023) and has 10 years of experience in meteorology and climatology. Today, she leads high-pressure forecasting and modelling of hazardous weather events to support emergency response – experience that matters in Antarctic conditions.

Since 2018, Ukraine’s Antarctic programme has seen a real gender breakthrough, with women increasingly joining both annual and seasonal expeditions. Congratulations to Anjelika and the entire team preparing for the 31st expedition!

https://nauka.gov.ua/en/news/anzhelika-hanchuk-to-lead-the-31st-ukrainian-antarctic-expedition