From Vostok to Vostok: Antarctic Discoveries

Abstract

Simple words which are found carved into the cross atop Observation Hill on Hut Point, Ross Island, to commemorate the final 1910 - 1913 Antarctic party of Scott, who all perished On their return journey from the South Pole. The last part of this inscription encompasses the final fatal moments of Scott's expedition, whilst if one was to succinctly define discovery, the first three components of this inscription would form a solid foundation from which to begin. Discovery is a concept that has been the driving force behind the relationship between humans and Antarctica for over 200 years- Sailing south in search of Terra Incognita Australis was followed by the race to reach the South Pole, whilst scientific study which discovered the Ozone hole is now searching for ancient life beneath the ice. The events that have shaped and formed the fascinating story that is Antarctica can all be attributed to this idea of discovery. Examining the relationship between the Antarctic and 'discovery' poses a number of interestmg and important questions. Investigating the history of Antarctic discovery allows the opportunity to gain knowledge and draw lessons to guide the future interaction between and discovery. 'IS success crucial, so long as the effort honourable, and any failure memorable?' is a question which encapsulates many aspects of the analysis of Antarctic discovery, and it is the question that provides the foundation of this paper. Simple words which are found carved into the cross atop Observation Hill on Hut Point, Ross Island, to commemorate the final 1910 - 1913 Antarctic party of Scott, who all perished On their return journey from the South Pole. The last part of this inscription encompasses the final fatal moments of Scott's expedition, whilst if one was to succinctly define discovery, the first three components of this inscription would form a solid foundation from which to begin. Discovery is a concept that has been the driving force behind the relationship between humans and Antarctica for over 200 years- Sailing south in search of Terra Incognita Australis was followed by the race to reach the South Pole, whilst scientific study which discovered the Ozone hole is now searching for ancient life beneath the ice. The events that have shaped and formed the fascinating story that is Antarctica can all be attributed to this idea of discovery. Examining the relationship between the Antarctic and 'discovery' poses a number of interestmg and important questions. Investigating the history of Antarctic discovery allows the opportunity to gain knowledge and draw lessons to guide the future interaction between and discovery. 'IS success crucial, so long as the effort honourable, and any failure memorable?' is a question which encapsulates many aspects of the analysis of Antarctic discovery, and it is the question that provides the foundation of this paper.