Antarctica
Antarctica is the southernmost continent, surrounding the South Pole. It is the fifth-largest continent, the coldest, driest, and windiest on Earth. With no permanent population, Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty and is dedicated to scientific research. It contains about 70% of Earth's …
Countries
No permanent
Area
14M km²
Population
Research only
Major Cities
2 featured
Overview
Antarctica is the southernmost continent, surrounding the South Pole. It is the fifth-largest continent, the coldest, driest, and windiest on Earth. With no permanent population, Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty and is dedicated to scientific research. It contains about 70% of Earth's fresh water in its vast ice sheet.
Geographic Facts
Antarctica is the coldest continent with a record low of -89.2°C (-128.6°F) recorded at Vostok Station.
The Antarctic ice sheet is up to 4,776 m thick and contains about 26.5 million km³ of ice.
Vinson Massif (4,892 m) is Antarctica's highest peak.
Antarctica has no indigenous human population.
The continent was not discovered until 1820.
Climate
Antarctica has the world's most extreme climate. Interior temperatures can drop below -70°C in winter. The coast is warmer and windier. Antarctica is classified as a polar desert, receiving very little precipitation.
Major Languages
Famous Landmarks
South Pole
McMurdo Station
Mount Erebus (active volcano)
Dry Valleys
Antarctic Peninsula