The Belgica
The Belgica expedition
The Belgica expedition, led by Adrien de Gerlache, was the first to overwinter in Antarctica (1897-1899). It was a groundbreaking scientific voyage that charted new lands and oceans, while also facing extreme conditions and chal-lenges. The expedition is considered the first of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.
First wintering in Antarctica:
The Belgica became trapped in the ice of the Bellingshausen Sea from March 2, 1898, to March 14, 1899.
While described as a Belgian expedition, it included a diverse international crew, with members from Belgium, Norway, Poland, Romania, and the United States.
The expedition gathered significant scientific data, including a full year of meteorological observations, and conducted research in geology, oceanography, and biology.
The crew endured a sunless polar winter, faced the threat of scurvy and starvation, and dealt with the psychological strain of isolation.
Adrien de Gerlache led the expedition, while Roald Amundsen (later the first to reach the South Pole) and Frederick Cook (a doctor and photographer) were also part of the crew. Cook played a crucial role in maintaining morale and helping the crew survive the harsh conditions. The Belgica expedition laid the foundation for future Antarctic exploration and proved that humans could survive extended periods in the Antarctic environment.