Expedition Introduction

An Expedition of Adventure, Discovery and Learning to the vast ice sheets of Antarctica.

• It is considered the coldest place on Earth with temperatures plummeting to -89C and with hardly any rain (falling as snow) is classed as a desert.
• About 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice that averages 1.9km in thickness, that's over a mile deep and holds 70% of the Worlds fresh water.
• It has an active volcano Mount Erebus, the high almost vertical cliffs of the Vinson Massif, an impressive and almost unassailable range of mountains reaching towards the sky over 4800m.

Its as diverse as it is extreme.

This isn't a place for the average person, in fact nobody lives there, only hardy scientists spend any length of time there and they are well equipped, protected in specially fabricated buildings.

In 1986 Robert Swan walked to the South Pole, a herculean effort by any standards.  Since then Robert has had an affinity with Antarctica and has set up a yearly expedition to highlight the delicate struggle of this precious place on Earth.  That expedition is simply called 2041, a reference to the year when the Antarctic Treaty System is re-visited by leaders around the world, a very important time for the future of this continent.

The Antarctic Treaty System prohibits military activities, mineral mining, nuclear explosions and nuclear waste disposal, supports scientific research and protects the continents ecozone.

I'm very privileged to have been selected to attend this years 2041 expedition which leaves in just a few days.  The expedition explains, through lectures and teaching, how this fragile environment is unique and susceptible to global warming and pollution.  The very things the Treaty is designed to prevent.  My role during the expedition will be to experience the wonder of this white, very cold continent, observing wildlife and assisting with gathering vital information.

Antarctica has a vibrant array of widlife; birds that fill the shoreline and sweep the skies above include, Skuas, Terns, Adelei Penguins and that most enchanting of sea birds the magnificent Albertross.  Lurking in the cold icy waters are playful, inquisitive Antarctic Fur Seals but beware of the infamous Leopard Seal a feroceous predator!  If i'm lucky I may see Humpback Whales and Dolphins.

Stay posted for frequent updates and pictures over the next 3 weeks.