Under Antarctica Expedition
The first kite-ski expedition supporting polar science
Explorer Matthieu Tordeur and glaciologist Dr. Heïdi Sevestre are joining forces to cross Antarctica and uncover mysteries that could reshape our understanding of the planet's climate future.
The expedition
Day
Temperature
Wind
Altitude
Distance
Day
Temperature
Wind
Altitude
Distance
This expedition is supported by Mr. Emmanuel Macron,President of the French Republic and under the auspices of UNESCO.
Our challenge
Distance
4000 km
Duration
~ 80 days
Min temp.
-50 °C
Max altitude
3 800 m
Effort
8 to 12h / day
Sled weight
200 kg
Science
Mapping
Science
Learn more about the scienceMission
An expedition that advances polar science and pioneers innovative methods for conducting research in extreme environments.
Radar
Ground-penetrating radar makes it possible to study snow accumulation rates and ice layering, as well as to detect subglacial lakes and rivers.
Data
Ground-penetrating radar can reveal subglacial lakes and rivers, bedrock topography, and snow accumulation on the surface of the ice sheet.
Climate
This unprecedented data will help us to understand Antarctica's past response to climate variations, so we can better predict its future contribution to rising seas.
The team
Meet the team- . This link will open in a new web page.
Matthieu Tordeur
Polar Explorer
Matthieu Tordeur is an adventurer, keynote speaker, and member of the Society of French Explorers. His adventures have taken him to over 100 countries across all continents. In 2019, he became the first French person—and the youngest in the world—to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole. A passionate communicator and environmental activist, Matthieu uses his expeditions as platforms to raise awareness about climate change.
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Dr. Heïdi Sevestre
Glaciologist
Dr. Heïdi Sevestre is an internationally renowned glaciologist, specializing in glacier dynamics, tropical glaciers, and Antarctic ice shelves working for the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme Secretariat (AMAP). In 2022, she was awarded the Shackleton Medal for the protection of polar regions. As a leading voice in climate advocacy, she frequently contributes to documentaries for National Geographic, the BBC, and France Télévisions.
