Beyond the Frozen Sea: Visions of Antarctica

First came the great maritime explorersCook, Ross, von Bellingshausen, Weddellwhose voyages opened the Southern Ocean to sealing and whaling. Next came the heroic age of land exploration with Scott, Shackleton, Amundsen and, much later, Byrd. Since World War II, there has been intensive scientific study on and around the Antarctic continent: Is exploitation of its natural resources the next step? Photographer and filmmaker Mickleburgh was a member of the British Antarctic Survey in 1968; his most recent visit was in 1986. Here he reviews the history of discovery and exploration, the 1959 Antarctic Treaty (due for renewal soon), territorial claims and conflicts. Mickleburgh writes of his concern about the future of this unspoiled, beautiful land. An effort to have the United Nations designate Antarctica a World Park failed. Economic interests may override other concerns in the near future; the necessary technology for exploitation is already available. Mickleburgh's dramatic photographs enhance and complement the story; the reader is convinced that this land should remain untouched. (March)