Antarctic Meteoclimatic Observatory in Mario Zucchelli and Victoria Land

To date, 15 automatic meteorological stations (AWS) are in operation all year round and, only in summer, a radio sound system, a celiometer for measuring the base of the clouds, a "sky camera" and a rain gauge. Some AWS, besides the standard parameters (temperature, pressure, relative humidity, wind intensity and direction) integrate sensors for radiation overall, the accumulation of snow.

Most AWS transmit data in real time via radio modem or iridium to MZS during the summer, and throughout the year via the Argos satellite system. In addition to the scientific community, the data are used for local forecasts and for the planning of flight activities. The transmission of meteorological messages on the international WMO-GTS circuit allows their assimilation into the models, contributing to the improvement of their performances.