The Polar Discovery team has documented science in action from pole to pole during the historic 2007-2009 International Polar Year, and covered five scientific expeditions. The science projects have explored a range of topics from climate change and glaciers, to Earth’s geology, biology, ocean chemistry, circulation, and technology at the icy ends of the earth. Through daily photo essays, we explain how scientists collect data and what they are discovering about the rapidly changing polar regions.
What's next for the Polar Discovery team?
Even though the International Polar Year has ended, science will continue in the Arctic and Antarctic. Stay tuned for future Polar Discovery expeditions to the icy ends of the earth.
Live from the Poles: Discover the last 5 expeditions and the researchers and the communicators who bring you stories from the ice. Start the journey »
The Arctic ecosystem has a unique, complex food web that is fashioned by its plankton, animal species, and environmental factors. Learn more »
The Arctic: The Arctic is named for the north polar constellation “Arktos”—Greek for “bear,” and is 14.5 million square kilometers in area. Find out more »
Antarctica: Most people know that Antarctica is the coldest place on Earth, but did you know it is the world's largest desert? Discover more »
Videos and Interviews: Visit our multimedia section to watch interviews of the scientists and videos on our expeditions so far. Watch the videos »
Compare the Poles: Even though they are both at the "ends of the earth," the Arctic and Antarctic differ in many ways. Learn more about the differences »