On January 10, 2025, the research vessel "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" (nick 421) successfully reached Smith Island, marking a significant milestone in Bulgarian Antarctic exploration. The crew, accompanied by Professor Lyubomir Ivanov from the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute (BAI), became the first Bulgarians to set foot on the island.
Smith Island, known for its complex history and geography, features its highest peak at 2,105 meters and has only two or three documented landings prior to this event. Following the initial survey, a larger group of scientists, including geologists, seismologists, and biologists, is expected to return for further research.
During their stay at Port Foster, a caldera on the volcanic island of Deception, the crew conducted activities as part of the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition. The vessel anchored near the Spanish Antarctic base "Gabriel de Castilla," where a cargo operation was performed to unload construction materials and equipment.
The crew also collected samples for various scientific projects. Notably, Associate Professor Svetoslav Georgiev Dimov and Dr. Vesna Macic gathered essential samples from Deception Island, expanding their research scope. Ornithologists Dr. Boyan Mitchev and Professor Iliya Vatev studied potential nesting habitats for birds.
After completing the cargo operation, the crew received an invitation from the commander of the Spanish base, Lieutenant Colonel Javier Moreno, for an official visit, underscoring the long-standing cooperation between Spanish and Bulgarian Antarctic programs. Additionally, the crew visited the Argentine supply vessel "Puerto Argentino" and the seasonal Argentine polar base on the island.