🇦🇶 Antarctica
Discover the world's most remote continent — a pristine wilderness of ice, penguins, and groundbreaking scientific research.
About Antarctica
Antarctica is Earth's southernmost continent, containing the geographic South Pole. It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent, and has the highest average elevation. About 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice that averages 1.9 km in thickness.
The continent is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, which designates it as a scientific preserve and bans military activity. Over 30 countries operate seasonal and year-round research stations, conducting vital studies on climate change, astronomy, and biology.
Research Stations
Quick Facts
Area
14.2 million km²
Population
~5,000 (summer)
Stations
70+ research stations
Temperature
-89.2°C record low
Ice Coverage
98% ice-covered
Treaty
Antarctic Treaty 1959