FEATURE
THE MOST EXTREME PORTAL IN THE WORLD Submarine Optical Networks One Step Away From Connecting Antarctica BY JAVIER VALDEZ
INTRODUCTION - THE IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTIVITY AT THE END OF THE WORLD
Connectivity is a fundamental need in the digital age in which we live. Communication networks play a crucial role in the transmission of information and in connecting people around the world. In this regard, the submarine connection between Ushuaia and Puerto Williams holds great strategic importance for the economic, social, and cultural development of the region. The Island of Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, with its capital in Ushuaia, has an area of 987,168 km² and a population of 190,641 inhabitants, according to the 2022 Census. On the other hand, the Chilean side of the island has an area of 22,553 km² and a population of 8,354 inhabitants, as per data from 2017. Puerto Williams has a population of 2,874 inhabitants, according to the 2002 census.
is a starting point for expedition trips to Antarctica. The submarine connection between Ushuaia and Puerto Williams would significantly improve the region’s connectivity. Currently, communication between these two cities is facilitated through satellite and terrestrial connections, which limit the speed and quality of communications. The submarine connection would allow for greater speed and data transmission capacity, thereby boosting the development of various activities in the region. In economic terms, the submarine connection could stimulate the growth of the tourism, fishing, and mining sectors, among others. For instance, tourism is a key activity
REGIONAL OBJECTIVE AND STRATEGY
The Tierra del Fuego region, located in southern Patagonia, is rich in natural and tourist resources. Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is a major tourist destination known for its spectacular landscapes and unique fauna and flora. Puerto Williams, on the other hand, is the capital of the commune of Cabo de Hornos, in the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic region. This city serves as the Chilean Navy’s operations center in Antarctica and
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Figure 1: City of Ushuaia, Argentina