Chile’s telecommunications regulator, Subtel, has awarded a contract to Salience and Pioneer for a feasibility study on an undersea fibre-optic cable connecting Antarctica to Chile’s Magallanes region. The contract, valued at USD 2.2 million, attracted four bidders and is funded by the Latin American development bank CAF.
The telecommunications regulatory body in Chile, known as Subtel, has officially announced that a consortium comprising the firms Salience and Pioneer has been selected to undertake a feasibility study for an undersea fibre-optic cable linking Antarctica with Chile’s Magallanes region and, subsequently, the broader world. This initiative comes with a budget of USD 2.2 million, which was allocated through a competitive tender that attracted four offers. The study’s funding source is the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), aiming to enhance connectivity in this remote region.
The feasibility study for an undersea fibre-optic cable to Antarctica represents a significant step towards improving telecommunications connectivity in one of the most isolated places on Earth. Given the growth of scientific research and tourism in Antarctica, reliable communication systems are increasingly indispensable. This project will focus on evaluating the technical and economic viability of constructing a cable that will connect Antarctica to Chile, facilitating not only logistical support but also information exchange in a region that is otherwise challenging to access.
In conclusion, the selection of the Salience/Pioneer consortium to explore the feasibility of a fibre-optic cable to Antarctica marks a pivotal moment for telecommunications in Chile and the Antarctic region. Funded by the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), this initiative seeks to address the communication needs of a unique and remote area, potentially enhancing both scientific endeavors and tourism opportunities. The successful completion of this feasibility study could lead to groundbreaking advancements in connectivity for Antarctica.
Original Source: www.telecompaper.com
