NASA | A Selective History of Sea Ice Observations, Part 1

The transcript explores the history of Arctic sea ice exploration, starting with early accounts from Greek explorers and Vikings, through the Great Age of Exploration, and into modern scientific research. It highlights key expeditions, such as those led by Nordenskiold and Amundsen, and the challenges faced by explorers navigating the Arctic ice. The narrative also covers the development of scientific research camps and the role of submarines in mapping the Arctic's ice-covered regions.

Which ancient explorer is credited with one of the first scientific accounts of Arctic sea ice?

• Christopher Columbus

• Leif Erikson

• Pytheas of Massalia

• Marco Polo

During the Great Age of Exploration, which mapmaker gave the sea ice pack its first rough outline?

• Gerardus Mercator

• Ptolemy

• Ferdinand Magellan

• James Cook

Who led the Vega expedition through the Northeast Passage in 1878?

• Richard Evelyn Byrd

• Mikhail Lomonosov

• Adolf Erik Nordenskiold

• Roald Amundsen

What was the significance of the USS Nautilus in Arctic exploration?

• It was the first icebreaker to navigate the Northwest Passage.

• It was the first aircraft to fly over the Arctic.

• It was the first submarine to travel under the North Pole.

• It was the first ship to reach the North Pole by surface.

What challenge does the Arctic ice pose to shipping, according to the video?

• It is a frozen barrier that even powerful icebreakers cannot overcome.

• It is only a minor obstacle for submarines.

• It is easily navigable by modern ships.

• It melts completely during summer, allowing free passage.