Fossil Bluff serves as a forward logistics and short term accommodation hut in support of the UK scientific investigation of Antarctica, mainly as a transit station for field work. It has been occupied during the southern winters of 1961, 1962 and 1969-1975. Since then it has been used during summers only and in addition, as a refueling stop for aircraft and the occasional helicopter on its 1200m (unprepared snow) skiway. It is about 90 minues flying time from the UK
Rothera Research Station. It is at the base of a ridge, near the Planet Heights, and overlooking George VI Sound which separates the rest of mountainous Alexander Island from Palmer Land. To the immediate east, the George VI Ice Shelf provides a relatively convenient low level route in from the coast.
