Antarctic Exploration

In 1773 Captain Cook was the first to enter the Antarctic Circle with his ship the Resolution.

Whaling Whales were hunted in the Antarctic for over 200 years, and the whale population nearly disappeared. Whaling ceased in the 1960s and now the disused whaling stations lie empty and rusting. Photo: Peter Smith

In 1911 Scott and his team arrived in Antarctica to undertake scientific research and to try and reach the South Pole... While preparing their expedition they heard that a Norwegian called Amundsen had arrived unexpectedly; he was also attempting to be first to the South Pole.

All through the winter of 1911 Scott’s party sheltered in their hut, waiting for the daylight to return and getting ready for the long march to the South Pole. When daylight re-appeared they set on the long journey to the South Pole. Four-man teams hauled sleds loaded with tents and equipment over the ice and snow towards the South Pole. Captain Scott chose four companions for the final 167 miles, and they set off on 4 January 1912. This was last time they were seen alive. Scott’s party arrived at the South Pole to find a Norwegian flag flying: Amundsen had beaten them. Bitterly disappointed, they set off on the long journey back to base.

Winter had come early, and the weather worsened Winter had come early, and the weather worsened. Scott and his two surviving companions struggled to continue, but their supplies gave out and they died in their tent only a short distance from safety. When their bodies were found months later a cairn was raised over their tent with a cross made of skis. Scott’s diary describes their last few days. His final words were ‘It seems a pity but I do not think I can write more. R. Scott. Last entry: For God’s sake look after our people’.

In the 1960s tourists started visiting Antarctica In the 1960s tourists started visiting Antarctica. Today cruise ships enter the Antarctic Circle during the summer months. Photo: Peter Smith

During the summer season of 2009-2010 over 37,000 tourists visited Antarctica. What impact do you think this has on the environment? Photo: Peter Smith