Contents

Contents : The Geography of Antarctica (the continent -- the islands -- dry valleys and lakes) -- The Geology of Antarctica (Fossils and meteorites) -- The Glaciology of Antarctica (Ice, icebergs and glaciers) -- The Climate of Antarctica (climate and atmosphere) -- The Biology of Antarctica (Microbial life -- plant life -- Antarctic fish -- whales -- seals -- penguins -- other sea birds) -- The exploration of Antarctica (the unknown land -- to the south pole -- amazing adventures -- the aeroplane -- modern explorers -- private expeditions -- animals in Antarctica) -- Science in Antarctica (the international geophysical Year (IGY) -- the antarctic treaty -- setting up stations -- the work of scientists -- the Antarctic ozone hole -- the greenhouse effect) -- The Future (conserrvation -- historic huts -- tourism -- New Zealand’s role in Antarctica) -- glossary -- acronyms -- index -- further reading -- references -- acknowledgements -- image credits.