Two Brazilian sailors died and one was injured Saturday after a fire broke out at a naval research station in Antarctica , authorities reported . The fire occurred at the Comandante Ferraz station on King George Island , said Adm. Julio Soares de Moura Neto , commander of the Brazilian navy . The sailors were trying to extinguish a fire that broke out in the engine room of the facility . Brazilian military police are investigating the cause . The station is home to researchers who conduct studies on the effects of climate change in Antarctica and its implications on the planet , according to the Ministry of Science and Technology and Innovation . Researchers at the base also study marine life and the atmosphere . The Brazilian navy estimated there were 32 civilians and 12 sailors at the station when the fire broke out . Remaining personnel on the base were transferred to Chilean base Eduardo Frei in southern Chile and were expected to return to Brazil some time on Monday , according to the Brazilian Foreign Ministry . According to state-run news agency Agencia Brasil , Defense Minister Celso Amorim said that the Antarctica program will continue , despite much of the station being destroyed by fire and with it , many materials and equipment used for research . He said the nation has a 30-year commitment to the project . `` The entire core base , which is where these facilities are concentrated , was lost , '' said Amorim . `` The program is a source of pride for us , so let us continue. `` Amorim thanked Chile , Argentina and Poland for the transport and accommodation of Brazilian personnel after the fire , Agencia Brasil reported .
Fighting breaks out at Brazilian exploration site in Antarctica . Two sailors are killed , one injured . He remains committed to climate , other causes .