Antarctica
McMurdo Station
Welcome to McMurdo Station — Antarctica's largest research base, where scientists from all over the world live and work studying this icy continent.
Why is it famous?
It's the biggest human settlement in Antarctica, with room for over 1,200 people during the busy summer season.
It has about 85 buildings, including labs, a fire station, a chapel, and even a small store.
How was it built?
McMurdo Station was built in 1955 on volcanic rock at the edge of Ross Island, one of the only ice-free spots nearby.
Everything needed to build and run the station — food, fuel, equipment — has to be shipped or flown in from thousands of miles away.
Amazing facts
In winter, the population shrinks to about 200 people who brave months of total darkness.
Scientists here study everything from penguins and seals to outer space and Earth's climate.
Quick facts
- In winter, the population shrinks to about 200 people who brave months of total darkness.
- Scientists here study everything from penguins and seals to outer space and Earth's climate.
- It even has its own harbor, airfields, and power plant.
- It sits only about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Mount Erebus, the world's southernmost active volcano.