This Polar Express Has Skis By David Utter Expert Author Article Date: 2005-07-21 A new British base in Antarctica will resemble a giant blue centipede on Rossignols. No really, it will. After an international search, a team of British firms Faber Haunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects won the British Antarctic Survey's design competition for a new research station. According to the BAS, the winner was chosen from three design entrants. The new station, to be called Halley VI, will replace the Halley V station, which is in danger of shifting ice. Scientists predict a chunk of the shelf could break off by 2010. The winning modular design will employ skis, which will allow it to be towed across the snowy shelf if needed. The site allows scientists to study the hole in the ozone layer, but the ongoing threat of the shelf breaking off and drifting away raised concerns. That led to the call for a new station design. "This competition was launched to bring innovation and creativity to the challenge of building a scientific research station on a floating ice shelf," Director of BAS, Professor Chris Rapley. "I extend my warm congratulations to Faber Maunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects on their success at winning this competition." The BAS notes construction will begin in January 2007, with the design being completed by December 2008 for the Survey's use. About the Author: David Utter is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business. Email him here.