2026/07/29 by Javier Menéndez-Blázquez
paper · doi:10.1017/s0954102026100819
Abstract Antarctica constitutes a natural laboratory dedicated exclusively to peaceful and scientific purposes. In this context, Antarctic research stations represent the operational hubs for scientific activity and the primary sites of human presence on the continent. However, their remoteness, logistical complexity and strong seasonality constrain public visibility, accessibility and the monitoring of scientific operations. This perspective paper explores the potential of spatial digital twins (SDTs) as integrative tools to address these limitations and proposing a conceptual framework for their application in Antarctic research stations. This framework leverages virtual platforms for the operational and scientific monitoring of infrastructures, as well as for open data dissemination, decision support and improved accessibility, in line with the principles of the Antarctic Treaty. By synthesizing spatial data, sensor networks and real-time streams, SDTs enable the continuous monitoring of complex socio-technical systems. Drawing on their transformative role in fields such as urban planning and industrial management, SDTs can enhance operational management, scientific tracking and open data dissemination. Finally, the discussion addresses the potential technical, logistical and institutional challenges associated with their implementation into Antarctic research stations, such as data availability, cost-benefit balancing, standardization, scalability for large-scale stations and long-term maintenance. Despite these hurdles, SDTs have the potential to become a valuable and scalable standard for monitoring, managing and communicating scientific activity in one of the most remote and scientifically significant regions on the planet.