American Polar Society

American Polar Society. The American Polar Society is a distinguished American organization dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and exploration of the world's polar regions. Founded in the era of heroic polar exploration, it serves as a vital forum for scientists, explorers, and enthusiasts. The society fosters communication and supports research in the challenging environments of the Arctic and the Antarctic.

History

The society was established in 1934 by famed explorer and aviator Lincoln Ellsworth, who had undertaken significant expeditions to both Antarctica and the Arctic Ocean. Its formation occurred during a period of intense international interest in polar exploration, following the era of figures like Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott. Early meetings were often held at the Explorers Club in New York City, attracting prominent figures from the Byrd Antarctic Expedition and other ventures. Throughout the mid-20th century, it chronicled and supported pivotal events like the International Geophysical Year and the construction of research stations such as Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station. The society has continuously evolved, maintaining its role through the transition to modern scientific research eras led by organizations like the National Science Foundation and its United States Antarctic Program.

Mission and activities

The core mission is to promote interest in, and understanding of, the polar regions through education and the dissemination of information. A principal activity is convening its members and the public for lectures and symposia featuring leading polar scientists, veteran explorers, and policymakers from institutions like NASA and the British Antarctic Survey. The society actively recognizes and encourages polar endeavors through awards and fellowships. It also facilitates networking and collaboration among professionals from diverse fields including glaciology, climate science, and polar logistics, often highlighting work conducted at facilities like the University of Alaska Fairbanks or on icebreaker vessels. These activities aim to bridge the gap between historic exploration and contemporary issues like climate change in the Arctic Circle.

Publications

The society's flagship publication is the journal The Polar Times, which has been published since its founding. This periodical serves as a chronicle of polar activities, featuring expedition reports, historical retrospectives, member news, and scientific summaries. It has documented milestones from the Operation Highjump to the discovery of the ozone hole over Antarctica. The publication provides a unique archive of first-hand accounts and scholarly articles, often detailing research associated with entities like the Alfred Wegener Institute or the Scott Polar Research Institute. While not a peer-reviewed scientific journal, it remains an invaluable resource for historians and polar enthusiasts, preserving narratives from the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration to the modern operations at McMurdo Station.

Notable members

Throughout its history, the society has counted many iconic figures of polar exploration and science among its members. Its founder, Lincoln Ellsworth, was joined by other legendary explorers such as Richard E. Byrd and Bernt Balchen. Renowned scientists like Paul Siple, the inventor of the wind chill factor, and glaciologist John H. Mercer have been active participants. The membership has also included influential patrons and journalists who covered polar affairs, as well as contemporary leaders in polar research from agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and universities across the United States and Canada. This blend of adventurers and academics reflects the society's interdisciplinary ethos.

Affiliations and recognition

The society maintains affiliations with other major polar and exploratory organizations, fostering a global network. It has longstanding ties with the Explorers Club and collaborates with groups like the Arctic Institute of North America. While an independent body, it often highlights and supports the work of international bodies such as the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and the International Arctic Science Committee. The society confers recognition through honorary memberships and occasional awards to individuals and groups for exceptional contributions to polar knowledge, echoing the honors given by entities like the Royal Geographical Society. Its role is recognized within the polar community as a steward of history and a catalyst for future discovery.