Explore the Continent
Antarctica
The world's fifth continent, a frozen wilderness at the southern pole. Home to unique wildlife, scientific research stations, and some of the most pristine landscapes on Earth.
Temperature
One of the coldest places on Earth
Record Low: −89.2°C (−128.6°F) at Vostok Station
Average Winter: −60°C to −40°C on the interior plateau
Coastal Summer: 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)
Size & Area
Massive frozen continent
Total Area: 14.2 million km² (5.5 million sq mi)
Ice Coverage: 98% covered by ice sheet
Ranking: 5th largest continent
Wildlife
Unique Antarctic species
Penguin Species: 4 species breed in Antarctica
Seal Population: 7 species including Weddell, Leopard, Elephant seals
Birds: Over 10 bird species, many migrate seasonally
Climate
Extreme weather patterns
Precipitation: Desert climate, 150-500mm annual precipitation
Wind Speed: Up to 320 km/h (200 mph) katabatic winds
Sun: 6 months daylight in summer, 6 months darkness in winter
Geographic Location
Southernmost continent
Latitude: South Pole at 90°S
Ocean: Surrounded by Southern Ocean
Nearest Continent: South America, ~1,000 km away
Scientific Research
International cooperation hub
Research Stations: 70+ stations from 30 countries
Population: 1,00-5,00 researchers depending on season
Main Research: Climate, astronomy, geology, oceanography, biology
14.2M
Square Kilometers
−89.2°C
Coldest Temperature
70+
Research Stations
98%
Ice Coverage