Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station in Antarctica

The geographic South Pole- the point in the Southern hemisphere where the Earth's axis intersects the surface - was once considered the last frontier on the planet. The North Pole is in the middle of the frozen Arctic Ocean, so this is the only Geographic Pole that adventurers can reach.

The frantic journeys of explorers in the late 19th and early 20th century to reach this point resulted in some remarkable tales of human courage and tenacity. Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott are two such eminent names on the Antarctic explorers list.

Named to honour the legends, the Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station is a year-round station operated by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Surrounded by miles of ice, this remote station seems like an out-of-planet destination.

Standing at 90° south, you can imagine the fascinating history of the frozen continent from the past century coming alive around you. While the race to the South Pole has ended, reaching the South Pole marker remains a dream for explorers. 

Where is the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station?

The South Pole Research Station is deep within Antarctica on a high plateau. The station's latitude is -90.0° S and its longitude is 0.0° E. The iconic South Pole marker that you may have seen in various Antarctica travel guides is located near the station.

The station’s elevation is 2,835 metres and it sits over an incredibly thick layer of ice - around 2700 metres. Note, that the South Pole marker needs to be shifted by around 10 metres every year. This is to account for the movement of the Antarctic ice shift which is around 7 metres per year.

South Pole history

The journeys of Amundsen and Scott are among the most heroic stories in the history of human expeditions. While Scott tragically lost his life Amundsen became the first man to set foot on the South Pole.

Originally built by the US Navy in 1956, the station was the first permanent man-made structure at the poles. Quite remarkably, it has remained continuously occupied ever since.

Nonetheless, the structural challenges of keeping the Amundsen Scott station upright were considerable. The modular structure of the original station was buried by ice and the roof caved in. 

Actually, it sunk by 1.8 metres within the first 3 years!  Ultimately, the structure was abandoned in 1975.

In the next stage, a geodesic dome, along with a tower called Skylab, was set up as the station. However, it was damaged in 1988 and ultimately dismantled in 2009.  

The design of a new building with two levels started in 1992, and it was finally ready for use in 2008. The special design came with an adjustable elevation that helped the building to counter the problem of drifting snow.

Apart from the laboratories and living quarters, the station has an industrial kitchen, dining room, laundry room, lounges, and a small greenhouse. 

However, supplies have to be flown to the South Pole base at periodic intervals. Sealed trash is carried out from the station by the return flights. The station also has a gym along with volleyball and basketball facilities.

What is the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station used for?

The South Pole station in Antarctica is used for various research purposes. Since the area has stable meteorological conditions, mostly cloudless skies, and negligible air pollution, it is ideal for atmospheric studies and cosmic observations. A major activity in the station is the study of the Cosmic Microwave Background and radiowaves.

The dry, clear air makes the station an outstanding site for studying astronomy and astrophysics as well. IceCube, a neutrino detector buried below the surface ice, is located close to the station. 

In addition, the ice around the station offers a wealth of data to glaciologists and climatologists, studying Antarctic weather and climate change.

Population of the South Pole Station

Presently the station houses around 150 people including scientists and support personnel. The station is accessible by aircraft only between November and February. Around 50 of them remain back during the harsh winter to maintain the station. 

Aircraft systems do not work in extreme winter temperatures and the polar darkness reduces visibility. So travel becomes impossible and the station closes down.

Natural environment

The harsh cold desert environment does not allow life to thrive on the South Pole. It is an icy barren land with no plant cover. Unless you want to observe a magical sunset, there is nothing much to see outside the station. At the same time, it is starkly beautiful.

To be honest, the South Pole is not meant for humans to live. While technology and determination have made it possible, for those who live there, it often feels like living on the moon!

The same goes for animal life. Unlike the other belts of the Antarctic Peninsula seals, penguins, and other birds are non-existent around the South Pole. Rarely, a lone skua might be spotted near the station, causing some excitement among the residents.

Visit Antarctica with Secret Atlas

The Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station is an unusual crossroad. Here, the world of polar science meets the human spirit of exploration and endurance. With Secret Atlas, you get a personalized experience of Antarctica while travelling with a small group of like-minded people.

While you might not be able to visit the South Pole Station, you can still explore the grand beauty of Antarctica and form deep connections with nature. Led by expert guides and ensuring sustainability at every step, we ensure unforgettable experiences for our guests on the frozen continent.

To plan a transformative trip to Antarctica with us, get in touch.