2014/02/14 by Pang Xiaoping, Xiaoping Pang, Liu Haiyan +2
Decision Sciences · Engineering · Social Sciences · #Geographic Information Systems Studies #Multi-Criteria Decision Making #Spatial Cognition and Navigation
paper · doi:10.1017/s0954102013000965
openalex publication_date 2014/02/14 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/30
Abstract Site selection for Antarctic research stations is of great importance and is necessary to support Antarctic expeditions. Site selection is affected by both the scientific investigations planned and the expected life of stations following construction. In the site allocation process, an efficient spatial data management system is required to manage various criteria and a robust allocation method is important to handle decision uncertainties. The aim of this study was to build a criteria system and to conduct a site selection process with aid from geographical information systems (GIS) and the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP). In considering the natural environment and building conditions, fifteen factors were used as multiple evaluation sub-criteria and grouped into four main criteria: scientific research, environment, logistical support and topography. Comparisons were made between potentially suitable areas and the locations of existing stations and camps to demonstrate fitness-for-use of the allocation results. Finally, the suitability map was applied to identify candidate sites for a new Chinese research station by considering the position of current stations and areas of scientific interest. This model offers a comprehensive methodology for decision-makers in the assessment of potential Antarctic research station sites.