Before any research can begin, scientists must first make the journey to one of the most remote and logistically difficult places on Earth.

Expeditions reach the continent in one of two ways: by air or by sea.

Flying south offers speed, but depends on narrow weather windows, remote runways and tightly managed flight operations. Travelling by sea allows heavier cargo to be transported, but involves long voyages across the Southern Ocean and is limited by sea ice and weather.

Each route opens a different path into Antarctica, and each shapes the science that follows.

Choose how the journey south begins.