The Magnetism of Antarctica: The Ross Expedition 1839-1843

The under-documented Royal Naval expedition to Antarctica in 1839-1843 was a significant moment in polar exploration, revealing the continent and collecting scientific information. The expedition, led by Captain James Clark Ross and Commander Francis Crozier, set a new furthest south record and discovered the Ross Sea, Ross Ice Shelf, and Erebus and Terror volcanoes. The crews faced challenges and lost lives, but the discoveries laid the foundation for the Golden Age of Discovery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2022
Publisher: Whittles Publishing

This remarkable expedition, which remains relatively under-documented in the annals of polar exploration, holds a pivotal significance in the history of unveiling the enigmatic continent of Antarctica. It marked the first time in nearly 70 years since Captain James Cook had circumnavigated Antarctica, that a Royal Naval voyage of discovery had ventured so far south. During their journey, the expedition set a new furthest south record, surpassing the one established by James Weddell in a whaling ship in 1823. The expedition commenced its voyage from Greenwich in 1839, consisting of two wooden sailing ships, commanded by Captain James Clark Ross and Commander Francis Crozier. The ships were exclusively manned by Royal Naval personnel, with a complement of 64 men and officers. Their primary objective was of a scientific nature, aimed at studying the Earth's magnetic field and gathering comprehensive data to enhance understanding of the effects of magnetism on compasses and their utilization in navigating the world's oceans.

The expedition meticulously planned and accomplished all its designated targets. In the course of their journey, they visited a multitude of exotic locations, including Madeira, St. Helena, Cape Town, Kerguelen island, New Zealand, Australia, and the Falkland Islands. However, the pinnacle of their discoveries was the revelation of the Ross Sea, the Ross Ice Shelf, and the awe-inspiring volcanoes of Erebus and Terror, named after the two ships that embarked on this historic expedition. The crews faced numerous challenges while navigating through ice-strewn waters, narrowly avoiding collisions with icebergs. Despite the risks, illness was largely kept at bay, although several lives were tragically lost due to accidents.

It would be another 60 years before the scenes of these extraordinary discoveries would be revisited, ushering in the Golden Age of Discovery. This period witnessed a surge of exploration and discovery, with remarkable voyages led by renowned explorers such as Captain Scott and Captain Shackleton, further expanding our knowledge of the world's polar regions. The legacy of this under-documented expedition continues to inspire and captivate generations, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of human exploration and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849955010