Transport in Antarctica

The frozen continent of Antarctica poses great transport challenges for people attempting to work there.

Ships from Australia can only travel to and from Antarctica during summer (November to February).

When explorers, scientists and visitors reach Antarctica they continue to face many travel challenges due to the harsh weather conditions and dangerous terrain.

Curriculum areas

Year 2 History
Year 5 Geography

Questions

Why is it so difficult to get to Antarctica?
Why is it difficult to travel around after you arrive in Antarctica?
The Antarctic environment provides many challenges for transport. What are some of the innovations needed to move people and equipment around?
What are the main differences between the types of transport used in the Antarctic now and those used 50 years ago? (Think about travelling to Antarctica and also about getting around when you get there.)

Records

Record

A Morris Mini car in Antarctica

This is a black-and-white photograph of a modified Mini Minor car at Wilkes station in Antarctica in 1965.

Record

Huskies pulling a sled in Antarctica

This is a black-and-white photograph of ten husky dogs pulling a sled across snow in Antarctica.

Record

Scientists Go to Antarctica to Study Weather – newsreel

Newsreel entitled Scientists Go to Antarctica to Study Weather, from the Australian Diary documentary series.

Record

Australasian Antarctic Expedition – sledging practice, Cape Denison

This is a black-and-white photograph of sledging practice with a team of huskies at Cape Denison, Antarctica, 1912.

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A video about Mawson Station being set up in Horseshoe Bay, in February 1954.

Unloading across the fast ice - Mawson Station, Antarctica

A video about Mawson Station being set up in Horseshoe Bay, February 1954.

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Glaciology traverse of Amery Ice Shelf, Antarctica

A video of glaciologists on an expedition from Mawson Station, Antarctica.