This expedition was a two‑month scientific and mountaineering venture to the Tien Shan mountains, undertaken by five Imperial College students and one University of Liverpool student between 2 July and 28 August 1997. Its objectives were twofold: to attempt first ascents of unclimbed peaks between 4,000–6,000m and to collect high‑altitude measurements of ultraviolet‑B (UV‑B) radiation using a novel silicon‑carbide photodiode instrument.
The team established two main base camps. The first, in the Khrebet Borkoldoy, served as an acclimatisation and exploratory site where seven peaks between 4,600–5,000 m were attempted and four were successfully climbed, though their first‑ascent status remains uncertain. Conditions were characterised by unstable weather, loose and unsafe rock, high scree slopes, and sparse glaciation. The team also documented abundant wildlife and conducted UV‑B measurements at altitudes from 3,200m to 4,600m.
The second base camp was located in the Pik Dankova region of Khrebet Kokshaal‑Tau, a more dramatic and higher range on the Chinese border. Four additional peaks were attempted here, with two summited successfully. According to Moscow archives, one of these peaks had never been climbed before, giving the expedition at least one confirmed first ascent. Climbs included complex snow and ice routes, challenging ridges, deep snow conditions, and significant logistical obstacles, including weather delays, snow blindness, stomach illness, and altitude‑related fatigue.
The scientific programme collected complete UV‑B datasets at multiple altitudes from dawn to dusk, measuring direct and diffuse radiation. Although calibration limitations restrict absolute accuracy, the dataset provides valuable relative measurements for understanding how UV‑B increases with altitude in dry Central Asian environments.