Polar Star returns to Mare Island shipyard

The Coast Guard’s heavy icebreaker, Polar Star, has returned after a 308-day mission to complete essential service upgrades, marking a significant milestone in enhancing its operational capabilities.

The 399′ heavy icebreaker Polar Star has returned after a 308-day deployment and the annual Operation Deep Freeze (ODF) 2025 science support mission. It is now undergoing the final year of a five-year Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) at Mare Island Dry Dock in Vallejo, Calif.

The Coast Guard’s focus on extending Polar Star’s service life is crucial as it bolsters its polar capability amidst global competition. With the construction of the first Polar Security Cutter underway, Polar Star remains the sole U.S. icebreaker capable of supporting the annual McMurdo Sound breakout in Antarctica.

The completion of Polar Star’s SLEP marks a significant investment in maintaining its operational readiness for future polar deployments. Key upgrades include gyro repeater recapitalization, ancillary pumps and motors replacement, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system refurbishments.

U.S. Antarctic Mission Proceeds as Polar Star Departs Australia

Despite its age, Polar Star remains a vital asset for the U.S. Antarctic program, showcasing its enduring power and capabilities. The ongoing investments in Polar Star reflect the nation’s commitment to enhancing its polar icebreaking capabilities for future missions. Title: “Breaking News: Major Breakthrough in Cancer Research”

In a groundbreaking development, researchers have made significant progress in the fight against cancer. This new discovery has the potential to revolutionize treatment options and improve outcomes for patients worldwide.

The research team, led by Dr. Smith, has identified a novel mechanism that plays a crucial role in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By targeting this mechanism, they have successfully inhibited tumor growth in preclinical studies, offering new hope for cancer patients.