Soviet transarctic flights in the late 1920s and their role in the geographical development of the Arctic regions of Siberia

• Published in: IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science
• Main Authors: Ulyanova, S B, Anosova, N E, Fisheva, A A
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: unknown
• Published: IOP Publishing 2020
• Subjects: Arctic; Arctic Ocean; Siberia
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/539/1/012014; https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/539/1/012014/pdf; https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/539/1/012014

Abstract The role of aviation in the development of the Arctic became evident in the late 1930s. The long-distance flights of V. Chkalov, V. Molokov, M. Gromov and other pilots not only symbolized Soviet heroism, but also contributed to the exploration and development of Arctic spaces by the Soviet Union. However, the achievements of those who made the way to the North for our aviators in 1920s are in the shadow of their successes.This article analyzes the materials of first transarctic flights - their routes, organization, technical and financial support, and the work of flight crews, both in terms of the achieved results and in the political aspect. The analysis of the goals and achievements of the USSR Osoaviahim Northern Air Expedition in 1927 and the Transarctic Expedition in 1928 is based on the materials of St. Petersburg Central State Archive of Scientific and Technical Documentation and other materials. The authors highlight the contribution made by these expeditions into the exploration of Eastern Siberia and the Arctic Ocean and into the development of the regional transport infrastructure. The authors dwell on the work of various departments and the researchers in the field of the national aeronautics in the organization of the expedition. The conclusion is drawn on the importance of scientific and commercial interest in the development of polar aviation in the 1920s and early 1930s.