Tragedy stopped Mawson exploring this remote Antarctic region. We must get there to study its melting ice
Researchers are calling for a new expedition to the Wilkes Subglacial Basin in East Antarctica to study its melting ice. The region is highly vulnerable to climate change, and its potential collapse could lead to a significant rise in global sea levels.
Why it matters
Understanding the stability of this basin is critical for predicting future sea-level rise and its subsequent impact on global ocean currents and coastal populations.
PeteHarmsen/AAD , Author provided (no reuse) Tragedy stopped Mawson exploring this remote Antarctic region. We must get there to study its melting ice Published: September 29, 2026 7:00pm EDT https://theconversation.com/tragedy-stopped-mawson-exploring-this-remote-antarctic-region-we-must-get-there-to-study-its-melting-ice-291165 https://theconversation.com/tragedy-stopped-mawson-exploring-this-remote-antarctic-region-we-must-get-there-to-study-its-melting-ice-291165 Link copied Share article Share article
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Over a century ago, Australian geologist Sir Douglas Mawson led a sledging expedition over hundreds of kilometres of ice into a remote part of East Antarctica. The party turned back after the tragic death of a party member. Fellow Australian Cecil Madigan led another group across sea ice into the region before also turning back.
These intrepid explorers never set foot on an ice sheet which may be crucial to our future. Even now, we don’t know anyone who’s been there. It’s time to change that.
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