The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) has released an interactive map of Antarctica. It combines coastline and contour information and is available to everyone from tourists to researchers to the merely curious.
Antarctica is constantly changing due to climate change, and many of its frozen features are outdated. New data tracks these changes and the regularly updated map reflects the latest details about the White Continent.
The Mapping and Geographic Information Center (MAGIC) at BAS maintains the Antarctic Digital Database. The database started in 1993 as a CD-ROM with existing topo maps. The BAS and other research organizations have expanded that information in recent decades.
The map shows moraines, outcrops, contours, lakes, streams and coastlines. Small red dots on the maps mark an ice formation, land feature or research base. Clicking on it will give you specific information about that specific place, including photos, elevation, and the source (and age) of the data.
This release joins the latest map update, which focuses on Antarctica up to 60°S. The BAS updates the maps every six months and asks for feedback from anyone who has used them, in case there are any inconsistencies.
The new map even shows the giant icebergs that recently separated from the continent, the ice shelves that are still growing in some areas, and the changing coastline of the South Orkney Islands. New islands, exposed by retreating glaciers, are added to the map.
The BAS hopes that the maps will help promote polar research. “Free and open access to reliable data is extremely important in all areas of work in Antarctica,” says mapping specialist Laura Gerrish.
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