Where in the world will you find the highest and windiest continent? The world's lowest temperatures and
largest supply of fresh water locked in ice extending as
far as the eye can see? On the most remote continent on
earth, Antarctica!
Antarctica is a continent of extremes, shimmering in
total daylight during summer and engulfed in complete
darkness in winter. It is freezing cold and as dry as any
desert on the inland plateau, while a relatively mild and
wet climate is characteristic along the coasts. Few
plants and animals live on the land itself, but the
surrounding ocean is rich with wildlife. Antarctica's
environment is as rugged and mysterious as any other on
the planet and for centuries explorers have tried to
conqueror this hostile landscape. In doing so they have
made significant discoveries about the global importance
of this delicate ecosystem. Today scientists go to Antarctica to study everything
from astronomy to zoology. From their discoveries we know
that Antarctica is a vital part of the earth's ecosystem
effecting both atmospheric circulation and circulation of
deep ocean waters, two key elements in the global weather
system. We also know that Antarctica's environment has
changed over geologic history and continues to change
today. A group of scientists from around the country directed by The Institute for Quaternary and Climate Studies at the University of Maine have embarked on a four year expedition to better understand how humans have affected Antarctica's environment and what the lasting effects on the world might be. Through this web site you can learn more about Antarctica's environment and the research being conducted there. We will be following their expedition to bring you some of the latest findings of global change research and invite you to join this expedition to the bottom of the world.
