Ross Archipelago

The Ross Archipelago is a group of islands at the southern edge of the Ross Sea, adjacent to McMurdo Sound and the Ross Ice Shelf. It includes Ross Island, which is notable for an active volcano and for hosting major Antarctic research stations.

The archipelago is the primary access point for scientific and logistical operations in this sector of Antarctica; Ross Island is dominated by Mount Erebus (3,794 m) and the settlements that support research activity. Sea-ice and ship landings in McMurdo Sound provide close views of volcanic peaks and the coastal ice edge.

The islands are also important for wildlife viewing in polar conditions, with seabird colonies and marine mammals commonly seen around coastal margins during austral summer. Access is limited to research and expedition vessels or aircraft serving the stations.

The group was charted and named during 19th century Antarctic exploration by Sir James Clark Ross, who explored the Ross Sea region in the 1840s. Since the early 20th century the islands, especially Ross Island, have been used as bases for scientific expeditions and, later, as locations for permanent research stations.

The archipelago sits at the southern entrance to the Ross Sea and forms the seaward boundary of McMurdo Sound. It is adjacent to the Ross Ice Shelf and is accessed principally by Southern Ocean ship routes or by air to the research stations on Ross Island.

• Mount Erebus: Active volcano dominating the archipelago, with a summit at 3,794 metres and persistent volcanic activity that is visible from surrounding sea ice and research stations.
• Research stations: Contains major Antarctic logistics hubs that serve programme operations on and around the Ross Ice Shelf, making it one of the most visited parts of Antarctica by science personnel.

What to See #

• Ross Island: Largest island of the group, location of the active volcano Mount Erebus (3,794 m) and the sites of major Antarctic research stations including the United States' McMurdo Station and New Zealand's Scott Base.
• Black Island: A smaller, uninhabited island west of Ross Island that supports scientific support facilities and radio and communications installations used by Antarctic programs.
• Beaufort Island: An uninhabited island in McMurdo Sound known for seabird colonies and volcanic terrain.