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.

This expedition is supported by Mr. Emmanuel Macron,President of the French Republic and under the auspices of UNESCO.

Our challenge

Distance
3650 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 science

Matthieu, wearing an orange and red down jacket, a blue beanie, and leather gloves, is adjusting the control lines of his traction kite in a frozen environment. The background is entirely white, suggesting an icy or snowy surface. He appears focused on his task, illustrating the careful preparation for a snowkiting activity in polar conditions.

The team

Meet the team

Matthieu Tordeur
Polar Explorer
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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.
Dr. Heïdi Sevestre
Glaciologist
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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.