EXPLORING THE FROZEN SOUTH

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 298, 8 March 1928, Page 10

EXPLORING THE FROZEN SOUTH

ONE of the most adventurous projects ever planned on a large scale is that to be undertaken by Commander Richard Byrd, who will leave the United States in September, with an expedition comprising 54 men, to explore the Antarctic by air. Byrd is no inexperienced explorer. He was the first man to fly across the North Pole ; now he seeks the regions of the South, aided by all the art of modern transport, in the enthralling service of science. We know something of the South Pole. Amundsen reached it in 1910, and a month later the gallant Scott planted the British flag there, only to perish, with three companions, on his way back to the base. But there is much knowledge to be gained by the scientific exploration of Antarctica. So far as is known a* present, it is a land of snow and blizzards, lone and lifeless, excepting for a few penguins which are found there during the short summer. But Byrd does not believe that a continent as large as the United States and Mexico combined is so entirely destitute of life. Between the great plateaux of snow and ice, he thinks, there may be lowlands and valleys wherein there are warmer temperatures, nurturing vegetable and life. And—fascinating thought!—he believes there may be found in these places forms of life, vegetable and animal, entirely different from anything we yet know. In this expedition also, it is hoped to prove the existing theory that Antarctica was once a connecting link between Australia—New Zealand and South America. If thorough exploration be possible in this region, where blow the earth’s most violent gales, what tales the travellers may tell! It is certain that the expedition will not fail owing to ill-equipment, for the preparations are most thorough. Ships, airplanes, snow tractors, electricity and radio—all are to play their parts in this comprehensive scheme. Since final preparations for the dash to Antarctica are to be made in New Zealand, the expedition has a very special interest for this country. The earth has no more inhospitable land to explore, and the men who undertake its exploration must run the risks that are obvious. But brave hearts make light of risk when science calls for service. “I regard whatever hazards are encountered as justified by the increase in man’s knowledge that the expedition will make possible,” says Commander Byrd. That is the spirit which achieves wonders. New Zealanders will hail with much cordiality the visit of the explorers to these shores, bid them godspeed ■vyhen they sail for Antarctica, and rejoice should thev return in safety with their mission happilv fulfilled.