Country Profile: Antarctica
Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent on Earth, primarily located south of the Antarctic Circle. It has no permanent inhabitants, with a fluctuating population that peaks at about 5,000 during summer months due to seasonal and year-round scientific research stations. The continent operates under the Antarctic Treaty System, which governs its usage primarily for peaceful purposes and scientific research, prohibiting military activity and mineral exploitation. Economically, Antarctica is largely unsupported by traditional structures, with energy resources being limited and mainly used for scientific operations.
Geography
Antarctica is the fifth-largest continent, covering an area of approximately 14.2 million square kilometers, with about 99% covered by a thick ice sheet. The climate is characterized by severe low temperatures, with East Antarctica being colder than West Antarctica due to higher elevations. The terrain features mountain ranges reaching nearly 5,000 meters, while ice-free regions are limited to coastal areas and some islands.
- 14.2 million sq km total area
- 285,000 sq km ice-free land
- 17,968 km of coastline
- Vinson Massif is the highest point at 4,892 m
- Lowest point at Denman Glacier, over -3,500 m
People and Society
Antarctica has no permanent population, but during peak summer months, around 5,000 researchers and support staff inhabit various research stations. In winter, this number drops significantly to approximately 1,100. A total of 56 countries have signed the Antarctic Treaty, allowing for international scientific collaboration across the continent.
- 5,000 people in summer (approximate maximum)
- 1,100 people in winter (approximate minimum)
- 56 countries have signed the Antarctic Treaty
- 30 countries operate research stations on the continent
Government
Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, which includes the Antarctic Treaty signed in 1959 and various other agreements aimed at preserving the continent for scientific research and environmental protection. The governance is collaborative, relying on consensus among consultative parties from signatory nations. Military activities are prohibited, and the region is to be used solely for peaceful purposes.
- 1959: Antarctic Treaty signed
- 1961: Treaty entered into force
- 56 member nations oversee governance
- Prohibits military bases and nuclear tests
Environment
Antarctica faces significant environmental challenges, notably the size of its ozone hole and ongoing ice loss. The extreme climate conditions contribute to its classification as the coldest, driest, and windiest continent on Earth. Conservation measures are in place to protect its unique environment and biodiversity.
- Ozone hole size remains a significant issue
- Ice loss continues, impacting global sea levels
- 0% agricultural land usage
Energy
Energy consumption in Antarctica is minimal, primarily linked to scientific operations. The continent imports limited amounts of coal and has a very low rate of refined petroleum usage.
- 2,000 metric tons of coal imported (2023 est.)
- 79 barrels per day of refined petroleum consumption (2023 est.)
- Total CO2 emissions of 15,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Transportation
Antarctica has a well-established but limited transportation network, mainly serving research missions. It features 31 airports, 5 heliports, and a small number of ports used for scientific logistics.
- 31 airports (2025)
- 5 heliports (2025)
- 8 ports (2024)
- Key ports include McMurdo Station and Port Lockroy
Communications
Antarctica has achieved 100% Internet connectivity among its research personnel, reflecting modern technological capabilities despite its remote location.
- 100% Internet connectivity (2021 est.)
- Internet country code: .aq
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 14.2 million sq km | Total land area |
| Population | 5,000 (summer) | Maximum seasonal population |
| Population | 1,100 (winter) | Minimum seasonal population |
| Coal Imports | 2,000 metric tons (2023 est.) | Annual import volume |
| Petroleum Consumption | 79 bbl/day (2023 est.) | Daily refined petroleum consumption |
| CO2 Emissions | 15,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.) | Total emissions |
| Height of Vinson Massif | 4,892 m | Highest point in Antarctica |
| Lowest Point | -3,500 m (Denman Glacier) | Lowest elevation not underwater |
| Climate Type | Coldest, windiest, driest | Climate classification |
| Government Type | Governed by Antarctic Treaty | Legal framework for Antarctica |
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