At the Dumont-Durville base, which has been in operation continuously since the beginning of the International Geophysical Year and is one of the most well-organized and convenient in the Antarctic, a group of French scientists conducts numerous important scientific research projects, including using two-stage "Dragon" rockets that reach an altitude of approximately 350 km. Jacques-Berthelier is in charge of the experiments. Of particular interest are the studies conducted in the biology program, using specimens of the local fauna, including the penguin and the Cape petrel