Embark on an extraordinary journey to the southernmost reaches of our planet with this comprehensive course on Antarctica. This class offers a unique opportunity to delve into the continent's remarkable physical characteristics, its historical exploration, and the international cooperation that safeguards its future.  

Session 1: Why Antarctica is the coldest, highest, driest, windiest, and most remote continent: exploring its physical features, ice dynamics, and limited flora and fauna. 

Session 2: Why it took until 1820 to reach Antarctica: early sealers and whalers, the heroic age (Amundsen, Shackleton), the modern age (Byrd, planes, tractor), and current exploration (satellite, scientific stations) 

Session 3: The development of scientific knowledge from the heroic to modern age, the  

1959 Antarctic Treaty, current issues such as ozone depletion and ice drilling, and SCAR’s role in international collaboration (Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research)  

Subject: geography, history 

Robert Byrd Breyer is the oldest grandson of polar explorer Admiral Richard E. Byrd. Breyer logged three trips to the geographic South Pole in Antarctica to build a new science station for the National Science Foundation. He produces websites, PowerPoints, and videos about Antarctica, has presented at Harvard and Ohio State, and serves on the board of governors of the American Polar Society.