Located high on the majestic Mount Everest, there exists a laboratory that has captured the attention and awe of many.
Known as the "world's scariest lab," its presence has left people astounded and curious about its structure and purpose.
Situated at an elevation of 16,000ft, this "world's scariest lab" operates by only one person.
This research facility was established in 1990, known as the "Pyramid" and people utilized this structure for years to study climate change and biodiversity.
With its three levels and glass architecture, the lab has hosted around 520 research missions. It is equipped with a fully operational internet and communication system.
This lab was originally a joint project between Nepal and Italy, under the Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) program, aiming to monitor pollution levels and climate change in the Asian region, where the Brown Cloud of air pollution from the Indian Ocean meets the Himalayan range.
This not only impacts the climate but also affects air quality, agriculture, and monsoon seasons.
Another mission of the Everest Pyramid research facility is to monitor pollution levels in Himalayan glaciers, leading to icebergs' faster melting.
According to Dibas Shrestha, a meteorologist from Nepal's Tribhuvan University, who took part in several research expeditions at the Pyramid lab between 2013 and 2016, Italy played a crucial role in optimizing the mission to create an exceptional research facility.
Such high-quality research stations are rare, particularly in the Himalayas.
Unfortunately, research missions at the Pyramid have been put on hold since 2010 due to funding problems.
Since 2022, Kaji Bista, the facility's manager, has been the only person staying at the Pyramid.
He has expressed the desire to keep the facility functioning as an observation station and is willing to host research teams.
However, the lack of funding may lead to a devastating conclusion for this long-standing high-altitude research facility in the Himalayas.
Paul Mayewski, a glaciologist from the University of Maine, stressed the significance of research stations in high-altitude areas.
He emphasized that these stations are crucial for comprehending the effects of climate change on the world's highest regions.
The Pyramid research facility has contributed valuable knowledge about the evolving environment of the Himalayas.
Its future is based on obtaining the essential support and resources to sustain its vital scientific endeavors.
