About the Atlas of Antarctica

Summary

This article introduces the Soviet project to compile a comprehensive Atlas of Antarctica, initiated in the early 1960s. The project aimed to systematically organize the extensive yet scattered expedition data accumulated during the International Geophysical Year, presenting the latest scientific understanding of Antarctica through a comprehensive atlas. Approved by the USSR Academy of Sciences and involving about 20 institutions, the atlas covers multiple disciplines including geography, geophysics, geology, climate, glaciology, oceanography, and biology. It was planned for publication in loose-leaf format to facilitate updates. The project served both scientific research and education, reflecting Soviet organizational capacity and international perspective in polar science.