Novaya zemlya

Novaya Zemlya (also known as New Land) is an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean in the north of Russia and the east of the Barents Sea. It is separated from the mainland by the Kara Strait.

Geography

Novaya Zemlya consists of two major islands, separated by the narrow Matochkin Strait, and a number of smaller ones. The two main islands are the Severny (Northern) and Yuzhny (Southern) islands. The highest point on the archipelago is the Mount Pobeda (Victory Mountain) at 1,547 meters above sea level.

History

The archipelago has been inhabited by various groups since prehistoric times, but it was officially discovered by the Russians in the 11th century. The most significant historical event on Novaya Zemlya was the nuclear testing carried out by the Soviet Union between 1955 and 1990.

Climate

Novaya Zemlya has a severe Arctic climate. The average temperature in January is -20°C and in July it is +5°C. The archipelago is covered with glaciers and ice fields.

Flora and Fauna

The flora of Novaya Zemlya is typical of the Arctic region, with lichens, mosses, and some hardy shrubs and flowers. The fauna includes Arctic foxes, polar bears, seals, and various bird species.

Economy

The economy of Novaya Zemlya is based on fishing, hunting, and military activities. There is also a weather station and a research institute studying the Arctic environment.

See also

• Arctic exploration
• Russian Arctic islands
• Nuclear testing