Page 61 - Coespu Magazine 2017-2

Scientific Research Centre began in 1986, when an American expedition declared K2 was taller
than Everest. Two prominent Italian representatives, Mr. Agostino Da Polenza and Prof. Ardito
Desio, could not resist this challenge and, in 1987, they united their scientific and mountaineering
strengths to launch the “Ev-K2-CNR Project”, in collaboration with the Italian National Research
Council.
They organized expeditions which put mountaineering at the service of science and re-measured
both mountains using traditional survey techniques and innovative GPS (Global Positioning
System) measurements. Not only did they confirm Everest’s title, but they also set the standard for
altitude measurements to come. Two years later, they founded the Ev-K2-CNR Committee to
continue promoting technological and scientific research at high altitude. One year later, in 1990,
Prof. Ardito Desio inaugurated Ev-K2-CNR’s innovative Pyramid International Laboratory-
Observatory. Since then, this flagship of international high altitude scientific research has become
the symbol of Ev-K2-CNR, and a point of pride for the Nepali and Italian governments. Today, due
to limited financial resources, this well-known research Centre is facing an age of decadence and,
unfortunately, it looks like a crumbling building.
The following day, my group hiked up to Gorak Shep (5,180 m). Finally, in the afternoon, we
reached, all together and successfully, the Everest Base Camp at the considerable altitude of 5,364
meters above sea level.
When you reach Everest Base Camp the feeling is euphoric. You can do nothing but marvel at the
spectre before you: a canvas of beautiful white snow peaked mountains, the Khumbu icefall and the
magnificent yet looming presence of Mount Everest. After the hugs and the handshakes of
congratulations, you will find yourself standing in an awe complete silence, or if you are an
emotional soul, shed a few tears.

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