A consortium of Salience and Pioneer has received a contract from Chile’s Subtel to assess the feasibility of constructing an undersea fiber-optic cable linking Antarctica with the world through Chile’s Magallanes region. The project, funded by CAF, has a budget of USD 2.2 million and has generated interest from multiple bidders.
The Chilean telecommunications regulatory body, Subtel, has announced that a consortium formed by Salience and Pioneer has been awarded a contract to conduct a feasibility study for an underwater fiber-optic cable that would connect Antarctica to the global communications network via Chile’s Magallanes region. The tender for this substantial USD 2.2 million project attracted multiple bidders and is being financed by the Latin American development bank, CAF. This initiative aims to enhance global communication access for research and environmental monitoring in Antarctica.
The proposed undersea fiber-optic cable represents a significant advancement in telecommunications infrastructure, especially for regions like Antarctica that currently experience limited connectivity. Given the increasing importance of research activities and environmental preservation in this remote area, establishing reliable communication links is critical. The involvement of the Latin American development bank, CAF, reflects a recognition of the project’s broad implications for connectivity and scientific collaboration.
In summary, the establishment of a fiber-optic cable linking Antarctica to Chile represents a pivotal development in enhancing telecommunications access in one of the most isolated regions of the world. The funded feasibility study by the Salience/Pioneer consortium underscores the importance of reliable communication for future research initiatives, while also contributing to global awareness regarding environmental conservation efforts in Antarctica.
Original Source: www.telecompaper.com
