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Large

Antarctica's land mass is twice as large as Australia. In the winter, sea ice around Antarctica expands, doubling the continent's surface area.

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Planet's water

About 90% of the ice and 65% of the earth's fresh water (in frozen state) reside in Antarctica.

Yet Antarctica is technically a desert (it averages under 6 centimeters or 2 inches of precipitation per year).

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Temperature

The lowest recorded temperature on earth was -89°C (-129°F) at the Russian Vostok Research Station.

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Government

There is none, though countries operating scientific stations abide by the international Antarctic Treaty.

These include Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, United Kingdom, and the USA.

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Click for more facts

FIRST PAGE

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Best 3 Antarctica cruise ships
When to go
Who should go - and not go
Small versus big ship
Itineraries
Costs
What-to-pack checklist

Zodiac landings
How to identify penguins
Antarctica history in brief
Interesting facts & tidbits
Glossary
More  pointers
Photo gallery

Top 10 experiences
Suite photos
Deck plans
Onboard enrichment
Dining & entertainment
Other onboard activities
Ship facts

Antarctica Cruise - Home page
Top 10 wonders of Antarctica

World's Top 100 Wonders

World's Top 1000 Wonders

Site map

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