Mawson's Antarctic Expedition Challenges

Douglas Mawson's expedition to a 2,000-mile swath of Antarctica is a remarkable story of survival and scientific exploration. Despite being overshadowed by contemporaries like Scott and Amundsen, Mawson's focus on science and his harrowing survival tale make his journey noteworthy. The expedition faced extreme weather, logistical challenges, and personal tragedies, yet Mawson's leadership and determination led to significant scientific contributions and a legacy that deserves recognition.

What was Douglas Mawson's primary goal for his Antarctic expedition?

• To reach the South Pole

• To establish a permanent base in Antarctica

• To conduct scientific research and explore unknown lands

• To compete with Scott and Amundsen

Why was Mawson's expedition less known compared to others like Scott and Amundsen?

• All of the above

• His story was overshadowed by the tragic race to the South Pole

• He was from Australia, which was considered peripheral

• He was not interested in reaching the South Pole

What innovative technology did Mawson plan to use during his expedition?

• Underwater drones

• Satellite navigation

• Radio communication

• Solar panels

What was the main challenge faced by Mawson's team at Commonwealth Bay?

• Lack of food supplies

• Equipment failure

• Extreme wind conditions

• Hostile wildlife

What tragic event occurred during the Far Eastern Journey?

• Ninnis fell into a crevasse and was lost

• The ship was lost at sea

• A severe storm destroyed their camp

• The team ran out of food

How did Mawson manage to survive after losing his team members?

• He was rescued by another expedition

• He relied on his determination and survival skills

• He found a hidden food cache

• He used a radio to call for help

What physical condition did Mawson suffer from during his return journey?

• Severe dehydration

• Frostbite

• Broken bones

• Detached soles of his feet

What was the mental state of the radio operator, Sydney Jeffries, during the second winter?

• He was calm and composed

• He was indifferent to the situation

• He became paranoid and refused to broadcast

• He was enthusiastic about the expedition

What was the outcome for Mawson and his team after the expedition?

• They were criticized for their failures

• They were forgotten by history

• They decided to stay in Antarctica

• They were celebrated as heroes

What happened to Sydney Jeffries after the expedition?

• He became a famous scientist

• He returned to Antarctica

• He lived in an insane asylum

• He wrote a book about the expedition