Scientific programs emphasize on research in glaciology, hydrology, glacial geomorphology, permafrost and periglacial processes, as well as climatologic and botanical studies. Since 1996 glaciological research and the studies of permafrost of various ground types and their seasonal thawing, as well as meteorological observations are the major issues on the research agenda. The results of glaciological, meteorological and permafrost studies to date have made it possible to obtain some of the longest data series available for Svalbard today. Monitoring of contemporary changes in the cryosphere and standard meteorological observations are being conducted, including using automatic weather stations operating all year round. Investigations conducted at the station are covering the monitoring of the natural environment in its abiotic and biotic parts.