The Southernmost City in South America: Ushuaia Argentina
When discussing which major city in South America is closest to Antarctica, the answer often diverges based on the criteria applied. This article explores the details, including diverse perspectives and the winner that stands out among the rest.
Understanding Major Cities and Antarctica
Before delving into the specifics, it is important to understand what is considered a "major city". For this discussion, Punta Arenas, located in Chile, is often cited as one of the major cities closest to Antarctica. It has a population of over 100,000 inhabitants and is situated on the Straits of Magellan.
The Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station
The Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station is a United States scientific research station located at the Geographic South Pole. This station is significant for scientific research but is not a city in the traditional sense. Its exact coordinates are 90°S and since it is a research facility, it does not compete in proximity to the major cities.
Other Claimants to Fame
According to the Southernmost Settlements on Wikipedia, Chile's Puerto Williams is the closest significant settlement, followed closely by Argentina's Ushuaia. However, the magnetic south pole can vary slightly from the geographic south pole, and as of 2007, the magnetic south pole was located at 64.497°S 137.684°E.
Esperanza Base in Chile is also a contender, being the closest civilian settlement to the Geographic South Pole. However, its population consists mostly of scientific personnel and does not serve as a city for tourists or regular habitation.
McMurdo Station: A Pushing It Case
McMurdo Station, a United States scientific research station in Antarctica, has a more substantial population during the summer months. It has a summer population peak of up to 1,258 people. While it is closer to the Geographical South Pole, its status as a city is not as clear as that of Ushuaia.
Ushuaia: The Clear Winner
Amidst the multiple contenders, Ushuaia, Argentina stands out as a clear winner. Known as the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia has a population of about 68,000 and is approximately 8 miles further from the geographic south pole than Puerto Williams. Ushuaia also benefits from its proximity to the tip of South America, making it an ideal starting point for cruises to Antarctica.
Ushuaia offers numerous opportunities for visitors to plan and join Antarctic cruises. In February, which is summer in Ushuaia, the weather can be challenging with strong winds. Therefore, it is advisable to pack warm clothing for your journey. Enjoy your adventure and stay warm!
Final Verdict
While multiple candidate cities and stations vie for the title of the closest major city to Antarctica, Ushuaia, Argentina remains the definitive answer. Its year-round population and accessibility make it the ideal starting point for those looking to explore the Southernmost Continent.
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