In December 2024, Greece took a historic first step in Antarctic research by sending two scientists from the Technical University of Crete (TUC) to the frozen continent. Architects Christina Balomenaki and Efharis Gourounti, both from the university’s Transformable Intelligent Environments Laboratory (TUC TIE Lab), joined the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition at the St. Kliment Ohridski base.

There, they are researching methods to improve people’s physical and mental well-being in this harsh environment. Their work is twofold—first, they explore environmental projections which, combined with other visual and auditory stimuli, can enhance mental health in isolated conditions.

They are also studying how different layouts and ambient elements can create comfortable and psychologically supportive habitats for those living and working in Antarctica.

But Christina and Efharis’s research has applications beyond Antarctica—including future space missions, climate adaptation, urban stress management, and mental health treatment.

The expedition was organized in collaboration with the Hellenic Polar Zones Society and the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute, with sponsorship from Laskaridis Shipping Company Ltd. It was also supported by the Greek Ministries of Development and Foreign Affairs, along with the Greek Parliament’s Special Permanent Committee on Environmental Protection.

Cover Photo Credit: Marina Velikova – TUC Website