Polar Hill Services for the National Science Foundation

The fabricator designs, manufactures, and installs durable clear-span, frame-supported membrane and steel-clad structures that provide large, unobstructed interior spaces, rapid installation, and long-term performance. These versatile buildings are well suited in applications where flexibility, reliability, and operational efficiency are critical. To support its mission “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; and to secure the national defense,” the National Science Foundation (NSF)-an independent federal agency established by Congress in 1950-required a facility capable of accommodating evolving research and operational needs.

The Arctic Adventure project demonstrates the successful deployment of a high-performance, relocatable building system in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Designed and supplied by the fabricator, the structure was delivered for use at Summit Station, a remote scientific research facility operated by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on the Greenland ice sheet.

Located at approximately 72° north latitude and over 10,600 feet above sea level, Summit Station experiences extreme cold, high winds, and continuous snow accumulation. Average annual temperatures remain well below freezing, with winter lows reaching nearly –100°F. These conditions required a building solution that could withstand severe weather while remaining functional, insulated, and adaptable over time.

The fabricator provided a 32 ft x 97 ft BVR-type fabric structure engineered specifically for polar use. The building features Thermohall® insulated PVC cladding, delivering an insulation value of R-35 through approximately eight inches of high-density insulation. This envelope protects equipment and personnel while maintaining interior usability in extreme cold.

To address the persistent challenge of drifting snow, the structure was installed on a sled-style wood and steel foundation, allowing it to be moved across the ice when snow accumulation threatens to bury it. After installation, the building was successfully relocated approximately 400 yards, proving the effectiveness of its mobile design.

All building components were prefabricated and transported to Greenland via a U.S. Air Force C-130 aircraft equipped with skis, capable of landing directly on the ice cap. Assembly was completed on site with minimal heavy equipment, using snowmobiles and manual methods under demanding Arctic conditions. The construction team lived in temporary polar tents during installation.

The completed structure serves as an equipment storage and maintenance facility, supporting ongoing scientific operations at Summit Station. Equipped with generator-powered heating and lighting, it provides reliable, year-round functionality despite the extreme environment.