Russians At Warm Oasis In Antarctica

On February 9, 1956, a news article reported a significant discovery by the Russians - an ice-free area spanning 550 square kilometers. The temperature at this location was a moderate 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). The oasis, was first spotted by an American expedition in 1948 while flying above it. The Russians claim that this is the first time anyone has set foot in the oasis.

The vegetation in this region is incredibly sparse, mainly consisting of various shades of black, grey, and white lichen on the stones. Additionally, scattered patches of mosses can be found in the riverbeds, but they only cover a small portion of the oasis. Overall, the landscape is predominantly a stone desert.

As for animal life, limited observations were made. Several birds were spotted, including a striking snow-white storm finch that made its nest on the rocks. Another small bird, black in color, was also observed in the area.

Source: Het Vrije Volk, 09 Februari 1956