The New York Times has maintained a near-continuous presence in Antarctica for almost a century, beginning with Russell Owen’s unprecedented 14-month assignment in 1928–1930. Owen’s dispatches, filed almost daily, covered the landmark expedition led by Commander Richard E. Byrd – a journey that culminated in the first flight over the South Pole in November 1929.
The First Polar Reporter
Owen’s coverage was so impactful that he won a Pulitzer Prize and earned the title “the world’s first polar reporter” from The Times itself. This was not merely a reporting feat; it established a precedent for long-form, on-site journalism in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
A Legacy of Antarctic Coverage
The Times’ commitment to Antarctic reporting since Owen’s pioneering work demonstrates the sustained importance of the continent in global news. This matters because Antarctica is not just a scientific frontier but also a key indicator of climate change, geopolitical interests, and the future of environmental policy.
Modern Expeditions
Today, expeditions like the current eight-week voyage of the icebreaker Araon, carrying dozens of scientists and two Times journalists, continue this tradition. Though conditions have changed, the underlying purpose remains the same: to provide comprehensive, firsthand reporting from a region that is critical to understanding our planet’s future.
The Times’ dedication to Antarctic coverage underscores the enduring value of immersive journalism in extreme environments, offering readers a unique perspective on a rapidly changing world.
