Survival guide to an arctic research station

Polar bears, altitude sickness, and loneliness are some of the challenges one might face when accepting a job at a remote research station in Greenland.

By Rasmus Balle Hansen

Sam Dugan works as a Doctor of Wilderness Medicine at Summit Station, operated by the U.S. National Science Foundation. His daily tasks include helping researchers and staff adjust to their new life at the research station and in providing assistance when accidents occur. In the worst-case scenario, he must be prepared to keep people alive for up to three days before they can be flown to a hospital.

“We are over 400 kilometers away from everything. The landscape is flat in all directions. There is absolutely nothing here.”
– Sam Dugan

Altitude sickness: You feel like crap

During the two-hour flight from Kangerlussuaq to Summit Station, the altitude rises to about 3,200 meters above sea level. Many experience that their bodies feel heavy and uncomfortable as soon as they step out onto the ice.

“You feel like crap. Nausea, shortness of breath, and headaches are the typical symptoms. It usually lasts for two to three days,” says Sam Dugan.

Altitude sickness is the issue Sam Dugan addresses most frequently, followed by accidents involving slips, trips, or falls.

The building housing the field clinic.

Photo by: Rasmus Balle Hansen

Nobody Wants a Busy Doctor

With temperatures dropping to -76 degrees Fahrenheit and visibility often limited to the length of an outstretched arm, it’s hard to avoid slipping, tripping, or falling. At Sam Dugan’s small and fully stocked field clinic, there are various tools and medications for treating broken bones and other injuries.

But Sam Dugan also spends a lot of time reminding people to be extra cautious when moving around outside.

“We try to prevent accidents from happening. We remind everyone to be careful. Additionally, we organize weekly training sessions for an emergency team to learn how they can assist me in case of an accident,” he explains, emphasizing that nobody wants a busy doctor.

“If someone is really in trouble, I may have to keep them alive for two to three days before we can get them to a hospital.”
– Sam Dugan

Ice sheet as far as the eye can see. 

Photo by: Rasmus Balle Hansen

Trapped on the ice with 40 Strangers

When Summit Station operates at full capacity, it can accommodate around 40 people — some staying for short periods, others for longer durations. During the low season, the number of residents drops to as few as five.

Living closely with so many – or so few – strangers can be challenging, especially when there are few opportunities to avoid each other.

According to Sam Dugan, everyone does their best to avoid stepping on each other’s toes — though it can be difficult.

“You are trapped here with 40 strangers. Everyone tries their best to make it work. But it’s a tough balance. Some need a friend, while others should be left alone,” he explains.

To have the best experience at Summit Station, Sam Dugan recommends maintaining good routines, staying physically active, and getting plenty of sunlight — when the weather permits.

One of the posted sheets about mental health at the research station.

Photo by: Rasmus Balle Hansen

5 Survival Tips

If you’re planning to visit Summit Station, Sam Dugan has five great tips for newcomers. In the video at the top of the page, you can learn which preparations are essential before arriving, how to move safely around the research station, and what you absolutely should not do.