Fun and Fascinating Facts About Antarctica

Antarctica is unlike any other place on the planet! Did you know that Antarctica is the world’s tallest, windiest, driest, and coldest continent? These are just some of the most interesting facts about Antarctica!

Antarctica is, without a doubt, a region of extremes and one of the most intriguing continents. It has no permanent inhabitants, harsh weather conditions, and massive skyscraper-high icebergs. That’s before you even begin to think about the the amazing marine life that dwells in its chilly waters.

A trip to this vast frozen desert will undoubtedly be an amazing journey! It will allow you to walk in the footsteps of legendary explorers such as Ernest Shackleton and more. There are many fascinating stories about the mysterious continent of Antarctica. Keep reading to find out all the fun facts about Antarctica you should know. 

Some Fun Facts About Antarctica

A trip to Antarctica is becoming increasingly popular, affordable, and accessible. In the 2018-2019 season, more than 56,000 people visited Antarctica, up 53% up from 2014.

Antarctica Is a Desert

Fact: Antarctica is a Desert

How could Antarctica be a desert with all of that freshwater stored in the ice sheet? This must be one of the most interesting facts about Antarctica!  Most people associate deserts with dunes and scorching heat, yet a desert does not have to be arid and sandy. A desert is named after how much precipitation falls in the form of rain, mist, fog, and snow in the area. Any area with extremely low or no yearly precipitation is considered a desert.

Ice Formations in Antarctica

That being said, during the last 30 years, the average annual rainfall in the South Pole has been slightly over 10 mm or 0.4 inches. Although precipitation is higher along the shore, the average rainfall over the whole continent is low enough to qualify Antarctica as a polar desert.

Consequently, though Antarctica is covered with ice, it has taken 45 million years to build to its present thickness due to the lack of rain. As stated before, as well as being a desert, Antarctica is one of the windiest, highest, and coldest places on earth!

Antarctica Is the Biggest Holder of Freshwater on the Planet

Fact Antarctica Most Fresh Water

The Antarctic ice currently contains 90% of the world’s total ice capacity and 70% of its freshwater. If all that ice melted, there would be enough water to raise the earth’s sea level by 200 ft!

The ice sheet covering Antarctica is the world’s largest. It covers 14 million square kilometers or 5.4 million square miles. That includes all mountain ranges, ravines, and plateaus in Antarctica.

Only 1% of Antarctica is always ice-free. Other areas in summer are ice-free, and that is when tourists visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Antarctica’s summer is from December to March.

The thickest part of Antarctica’s ice sheet is 4.5km or 2.7 miles. In comparison, that’s about half the altitude of Mt. Everest! If Antarctica’s thickest ice sheet melted alone, sea levels would rise by 60 m or 200 ft. 

Antarctica Was Not Always an Icy Continent

Antarctica Not Always Icy

Antarctica wasn’t always frozen solid; for nearly 100 million years, the continent rested over the south pole without freezing over. Then, approximately 34 million years ago, the climate changed dramatically.

The warm greenhouse climatic conditions, which had been stable since the dinosaur extinction, abruptly cooled. That formed an “ice-house” at the poles that have persisted to the present day.

Antarctica Can be Cold

Considering that Antarctica has the world’s coldest recorded land temperature. It was recorded by Russia’s Vostok Station in July 1983 at -89.2°C  (-128.6°F). It is hard to imagine that once upon a time the continent as a warm, subtropical paradise. 

According to researchers, temperatures in Antarctica reached 17°C ( 62.6°F) about 40-50 million years ago. Scientists have also discovered fossils that reveal Antarctica used to be covered in lush forests and home to dinosaurs!

Discovery of Antarctica

Discovery of Antarctica

Towards the end of January 1820, the first discovery of Antarctica took place. That was accomplished during a two-year expedition worldwide by two Russian ships: the Vostok and Mirnyi. Both ships were under the command of Captain Fabien Gottlieb von Bellingshausen on a discovery mission for the Russian Empire.

On the 26th of January 1820, Bellingshausen’s ships became the first to cross the Antarctic Circle since Jame Cook nearly 50 years before in 1773.

There Is No Time Zone For the Antarctic

Fact No Timezone in Antarctica

Here’s one of the strangest Antarctica facts for you! In Antarctica, the issue of time is complicated. Antarctica is not formally divided into time zones since it is primarily uninhabited. The South Pole in Antarctica is where the all Earth’s longitudes meet at one point. Longitude lines are the ones that give us the different time zones around the world. As a result, any time zone can theoretically be utilized there.

There are, however, a handful of research camps that each keep their own country’s local time. Some stations follow the country’s time zone that runs or supplies them, while others follow the times of nearby countries.

Summers in Antarctica are 6 months of continuous daylight, and winters are 6 months of darkness. Without the usual markers for day and night, time begins to seem a little odd. For travelers, however, they generally stay in the time zone of the departing country’s port. 

Everywhere Is North

Fact Everywhere is North in Antarctica

You are at the most southern point on the planet if you stand at the South Pole. It doesn’t matter which way you face and look; every way points to the north.

The question is, why do we refer to the Antarctic Peninsula as West Antarctica, while the area directly south of Australia is referred to as East Antarctica? The prime meridian is the basis for this. It’s an imaginary line that passes through Greenwich from the north pole to the south pole. Everything to your left is west, and everything to your right is east if you stand at the South Pole and face Greenwich.

Antarctica Is the World’s Fastest-Warming Regions

Global Warming in Antarctica

The Antarctic Peninsula is warming faster than many other parts of the planet. The west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the planet’s fastest-warming regions over the last 50 years. In fact, temperatures have increased across the Antarctic Peninsula by 3°C!

This has resulted in some changes, such as where and when penguin colonies form and ice in the sea forms. It also means that the plant life has a longer growing season.

There Are Active Volcanoes in Antarctica

Deception Island Active Volcano Antarctica

There are several volcanoes in Antarctica, two of which are still active. Mount Erebus is the world’s most southern active volcano and the second highest in Antarctica. This icebound volcano, located on Ross Island, is known for its ice waterfalls and twisted ice sculptures, which form around gases that leak from vents near the crater.

In 1908, a team led by Australian Edgeworth David and Douglas Mawson made the first climb of Mt Erebus. They made it to the steaming crater after a five-day strenuous and bitterly cold climb.

Deception Island, a volcanic basin in the South Shetland Islands, is home to the second active volcano. It was previously home to a successful whaling station and then a research station, but it was abandoned following the latest eruption in 1969. 

It is a fascinating place to visit where you’ll see old whale bones and the oil containers slowly eroding form the old refinery. Deception Island is also a great place for travelers to partake in the Polar Plunge because of its hot pools.

There Is a Blood Red Waterfall that Flows

A five-story waterfall slowly pours out of the Taylor Glacier into Lake Bonney in Antarctica’s McMurdo Dry Valley. For far too many years, the cause of the red color was unknown, but scientists revealed in 2017 that they had discovered it.

The flowing water from inside the glacier came from a salty, oxidized iron-rich subglacial lake. The iron in this water flow rusted when it came into contact with oxygen, giving the water its remarkable red color. Hence the name it’s given, Blood Falls.

Its Own Treaty Governs Antarctica

Antarctica Treaty

Antarctica was the only continent without an indigenous population when people first discovered it in 1820. Several countries quickly tried to make claims to the continent. That, of course, led to major tension.

Antarctica is now governed by an international treaty system known as the Antarctic Treaty System. This treaty was signed in 1959 by 12 countries whose scientists were stationed in or near Antarctica. 

Seven countries with territorial claims were among the first signatories of the Antarctic Treaty. These were Australia, Argentina, France, Chile, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and Norway.

In 1961, the Antarctic Treaty came into effect. Many other countries have since agreed to it. The Antarctic Treaty System makes all decisions by consensus, with collaboration and agreement on the key concerns.

The Antarctic Treaty System now includes strict rules for commercial fishing and seal hunting, and a complete prohibition on mining and mineral discovery.

Diamond Dust In the Air

Diamond dust in Antarctica

Diamond dust is one of the phenomena of the Antarctic. What is diamond dust? It’s a type of rainfall made up of small, elongated ice crystals that fall slowly and appear to float in the air. 

Sunlight causes ice crystals hovering in the air to shimmer, generating a sparkling effect that resembles a million-minute hovering diamonds. Halos, sun-dogs, and light pillars are all magnificent visual effects caused by diamond dust.

Antarctica’s Icy Frontier

Icy Frontier of Antarctica

We hope you have enjoyed some of the fun facts about Antarctica. There are thousands more beautiful and fun facts that do not show this cold continent’s true beauty and diversity!

You can, of course, experience it for yourself if you wish. Antarctica is quickly establishing itself as the ultimate adventure tourism location.

The few travelers who are lucky enough to travel to Antarctica and explore its enormous expanses return home eternally transformed by an encounter so amazing that it touches them to the core of their hearts.

Do you want to go to Antarctica and witness it for yourself? Read our Antarctic travel guide for some travel tips!

Planning Resources for Antarctica

Source link

24 thoughts on “Fun and Fascinating Facts About Antarctica”

  1. На нашей платформе доступны популярные слот-автоматы.
    На сайте представлены большой выбор аппаратов от проверенных студий.
    Каждая игра отличается высоким качеством, дополнительными возможностями и щедрыми выплатами.
    http://deluxegift.ru/bitrix/redirect.php?event1=&event2=&event3=&goto=https://casinoreg.net/
    Вы сможете играть в демо-режиме или играть на деньги.
    Интерфейс интуитивно понятны, что делает поиск игр быстрым.
    Если вас интересуют слоты, данный ресурс стоит посетить.
    Начинайте играть уже сегодня — азарт и удача уже рядом!

  2. Here, you can find lots of online slots from famous studios.
    Visitors can enjoy classic slots as well as new-generation slots with vivid animation and interactive gameplay.
    Even if you’re new or a seasoned gamer, there’s a game that fits your style.
    casino games
    The games are available round the clock and designed for laptops and tablets alike.
    No download is required, so you can jump into the action right away.
    Site navigation is user-friendly, making it convenient to explore new games.
    Register now, and dive into the world of online slots!

  3. The site offers various pharmaceuticals for easy access.
    You can securely order treatments with just a few clicks.
    Our product list includes standard solutions and specialty items.
    Everything is supplied through reliable pharmacies.
    https://www.provenexpert.com/en-us/xyzal-online/
    Our focus is on quality and care, with secure payments and timely service.
    Whether you’re looking for daily supplements, you’ll find safe products here.
    Begin shopping today and experience reliable access to medicine.

  4. On this platform, you can access a great variety of online slots from leading developers.
    Players can enjoy classic slots as well as modern video slots with high-quality visuals and interactive gameplay.
    Whether you’re a beginner or a casino enthusiast, there’s a game that fits your style.
    play aviator
    All slot machines are ready to play anytime and optimized for desktop computers and smartphones alike.
    No download is required, so you can start playing instantly.
    The interface is easy to use, making it simple to explore new games.
    Join the fun, and dive into the world of online slots!

  5. This website, you can find a great variety of casino slots from leading developers.
    Players can try out traditional machines as well as new-generation slots with vivid animation and bonus rounds.
    Even if you’re new or a seasoned gamer, there’s something for everyone.
    casino
    All slot machines are instantly accessible anytime and designed for desktop computers and smartphones alike.
    You don’t need to install anything, so you can get started without hassle.
    Platform layout is user-friendly, making it simple to browse the collection.
    Sign up today, and dive into the world of online slots!

  6. Were you aware that 1 in 3 people taking prescriptions commit preventable drug mistakes due to poor understanding?

    Your wellbeing requires constant attention. Every medication decision you implement plays crucial role in your long-term wellbeing. Maintaining awareness about medical treatments isn’t optional for optimal health outcomes.
    Your health depends on more than following prescriptions. Each drug affects your physiology in unique ways.

    Never ignore these essential facts:
    1. Mixing certain drugs can cause health emergencies
    2. Seemingly harmless allergy medicines have potent side effects
    3. Skipping doses causes complications

    For your safety, always:
    ✓ Check compatibility with professional help
    ✓ Review guidelines thoroughly when starting medical treatment
    ✓ Speak with specialists about correct dosage

    ___________________________________
    For reliable pharmaceutical advice, visit:
    https://community.alteryx.com/t5/user/viewprofilepage/user-id/576093

  7. This online pharmacy provides a broad selection of medications at affordable prices.
    Customers can discover various remedies for all health requirements.
    Our goal is to keep high-quality products while saving you money.
    Quick and dependable delivery ensures that your order arrives on time.
    Enjoy the ease of shopping online on our platform.
    cenforce sildenafil

  8. This service allows buggy rentals throughout Crete.
    Anyone can conveniently arrange a machine for fun.
    When you’re looking to explore coastal trails, a buggy is the perfect way to do it.
    https://peatix.com/user/26412811/view
    All vehicles are safe and clean and available for daily bookings.
    Using this website is simple and comes with clear terms.
    Begin the adventure and enjoy Crete from a new angle.

  9. This website lets you connect with workers for occasional high-risk jobs.
    Clients may efficiently request assistance for particular situations.
    All contractors are experienced in managing sensitive tasks.
    hire a killer
    This service provides discreet connections between users and workers.
    For those needing a quick solution, this website is ready to help.
    List your task and connect with a skilled worker now!

  10. 在此页面,您可以聘请专门从事单次的危险任务的人员。
    我们集合大量经验丰富的行动专家供您选择。
    不管是何种挑战,您都可以快速找到合适的人选。
    chinese-hitman-assassin.com
    所有合作人员均经过背景调查,保障您的隐私。
    服务中心注重匿名性,让您的特殊需求更加安心。
    如果您需要更多信息,请随时咨询!

  11. On this site, you can explore different CS:GO gaming sites.
    We have collected a variety of gambling platforms specialized in the CS:GO community.
    All the platforms is tested for quality to ensure fair play.
    betting csgo
    Whether you’re a seasoned bettor, you’ll quickly select a platform that suits your needs.
    Our goal is to help you to access proven CS:GO gambling websites.
    Check out our list right away and boost your CS:GO betting experience!

  12. В этом месте можно оформить заказ на возведение бассейнов на территории Сочи и Краснодарского края.
    Выполняются широкий выбор гидротехнических сооружений, от классических до бетонные решения.
    Работа начинается с оценки ландшафта и учета индивидуальных предпочтений.
    https://www.trustami.com/review/6811dfe4cc96c586628b456c-rating
    Весь процесс ведется под руководством мастерами, подтверждающими долговечность конструкций.
    Стоимость определяется под каждого клиента, что позволяет гибко подходить в воплощении задумок.
    Сопровождение и рекомендации предоставляются по всем вопросам, обеспечивая сотрудничество максимально комфортным.

  13. Here, you can access a wide selection of online slots from leading developers.
    Users can experience retro-style games as well as new-generation slots with high-quality visuals and exciting features.
    Even if you’re new or a casino enthusiast, there’s always a slot to match your mood.
    play casino
    The games are available anytime and compatible with laptops and tablets alike.
    You don’t need to install anything, so you can jump into the action right away.
    Site navigation is user-friendly, making it convenient to explore new games.
    Join the fun, and dive into the world of online slots!

  14. Looking for a person to handle a single risky task?
    This platform focuses on linking clients with freelancers who are ready to tackle critical jobs.
    Whether you’re handling urgent repairs, unsafe cleanups, or risky installations, you’re at the right place.
    Every available professional is pre-screened and qualified to ensure your safety.
    hire an assassin
    This service provide transparent pricing, detailed profiles, and safe payment methods.
    Regardless of how challenging the scenario, our network has the skills to get it done.
    Start your search today and find the perfect candidate for your needs.

  15. В данной платформе доступны интерактивные видео сессии.
    Вам нужны увлекательные диалоги деловые встречи, вы найдете решения для каждого.
    Этот инструмент создана чтобы объединить пользователей из разных уголков планеты.
    секс пары чат
    Благодаря HD-качеству и чистым звуком, любое общение становится увлекательным.
    Войти в общий чат общаться один на один, в зависимости от того, что вам нужно.
    Единственное условие — надежная сеть и любое поддерживаемое устройство, и можно общаться.

  16. This website, you can discover a wide selection of online slots from famous studios.
    Users can try out traditional machines as well as modern video slots with vivid animation and exciting features.
    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s something for everyone.
    play bonanza
    Each title are instantly accessible 24/7 and optimized for desktop computers and smartphones alike.
    All games run in your browser, so you can jump into the action right away.
    Site navigation is user-friendly, making it quick to find your favorite slot.
    Sign up today, and enjoy the thrill of casino games!

  17. 本网站 提供 丰富的 成人材料,满足 成年访客 的 兴趣。
    无论您喜欢 哪一类 的 视频,这里都 应有尽有。
    所有 资源 都经过 专业整理,确保 高质量 的 浏览感受。
    口交
    我们支持 不同平台 访问,包括 电脑,随时随地 畅享内容。
    加入我们,探索 绝妙体验 的 私密乐趣。

  18. У нас вы можете найти эротические материалы.
    Контент подходит тем, кто старше 18.
    У нас собраны разнообразные материалы.
    Платформа предлагает HD-видео.
    русское порно онлайн с разговорами
    Вход разрешен только после проверки.
    Наслаждайтесь простым поиском.

  19. The AP Royal Oak 15300ST merges technical precision alongside refined styling. Its 39mm stainless steel case ensures a contemporary fit, striking a balance between prominence and wearability. The signature eight-sided bezel, secured by hexagonal fasteners, defines the brand’s revolutionary approach to luxury sports watches.

    https://www.tumblr.com/sneakerizer/784514036592214016/a-timeless-legacy-the-audemars-piguet-royal-oak

    Boasting a white gold baton hour-marker dial, this model incorporates a 60-hour energy reserve via the Caliber 3120 movement. The intricate guilloché motif adds depth and uniqueness, while the streamlined construction ensures discreet luxury.

  20. Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak 15450ST boasts a
    9.8mm thick case and 50-meter water resistance, blending sporty durability

    Its sophisticated grey dial includes luminescent hour markers and a glareproofed sapphire crystal, ensuring legibility and resilience.
    The selfwinding mechanism ensures seamless functionality, a hallmark of Audemars Piguet’s engineering.
    Introduced in the early 2010s, the 15450ST complements the larger 41mm 15400 model, catering to classic proportions.
    Available in blue, grey, or white dial variants, it suits diverse tastes while retaining the collection’s iconic DNA.

    https://www.tumblr.com/sneakerizer/784512797388292096/audemars-piguet-royal-oak-15450st-the-quiet
    A sleek silver index dial with Grande Tapisserie enhanced by luminescent markers for clear visibility.
    Its matching steel bracelet combines elegance with resilience, finished with an AP folding clasp.
    Celebrated for its high recognition value, this model remains a top choice among luxury watch enthusiasts.

  21. ¿Quieres promocódigos recientes de 1xBet? En este sitio podrás obtener bonificaciones únicas para apostar .
    El código 1x_12121 ofrece a 6500 RUB para nuevos usuarios.
    Para completar, canjea 1XRUN200 y disfruta un bono máximo de 32500 rublos .
    https://hotbizdirectory.com/listings13245973/activa-tu-c%C3%B3digo-promocional-1xbet-y-gana-sin-dep%C3%B3sito
    No te pierdas las promociones semanales para conseguir más beneficios .
    Las ofertas disponibles están actualizados para hoy .
    Actúa ahora y multiplica tus apuestas con 1xBet !

  22. Looking for special 1xBet discount vouchers? This platform is your ultimate destination to unlock top-tier offers designed to boost your wagers.
    If you’re just starting or an experienced player, our curated selection guarantees enhanced rewards for your first deposit .
    Stay updated on weekly promotions to maximize your winning potential .
    https://checkbookmarks.com/story5256528/1xbet-promo-code-welcome-bonus-up-to-130
    Available vouchers are frequently updated to guarantee reliability this month .
    Don’t miss out of exclusive perks to revolutionize your betting strategy with 1xBet.

  23. Обязательная сертификация в России играет ключевую роль для обеспечения безопасности потребителей, так как минимизирует риски опасной или некачественной продукции на рынок.
    Данный механизм основаны на нормативных актах , таких как ФЗ № 184-ФЗ, и контролируют как отечественные товары, так и ввозимые продукты.
    сертификация одежды Официальная проверка гарантирует, что продукция отвечает требованиям безопасности и не нанесет вреда людям и окружающей среде.
    Кроме того сертификация усиливает конкурентоспособность товаров на внутреннем рынке и открывает доступ к экспорту.
    Развитие системы сертификации отражает современным стандартам, что укрепляет экономику в условиях технологических вызовов.

  24. Discover detailed information about the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 15710ST here , including pricing insights ranging from $34,566 to $36,200 for stainless steel models.
    The 42mm timepiece features a robust design with mechanical precision and durability , crafted in titanium.
    Original Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 15710 watches
    Compare secondary market data , where limited editions fluctuate with demand, alongside pre-owned listings from the 1970s.
    Get real-time updates on availability, specifications, and investment returns , with free market analyses for informed decisions.

Comments are closed.