What did Douglas Mawson do in Antarctica?
From 1911 to 1914 Mawson led the Australasian Antarctic Expedition and from 1929 to 1931 directed the combined British, Australian, and New Zealand Antarctic Expedition. His explorations enabled Australia to claim some 2,500,000 square miles (6,475,000 square km) of the Antarctic continent.
How did Douglas Mawson change the world?
Mawson’s team discovered the first meteorites in Antarctica. The second year also gave them the time to make the wireless equipment they had brought with them in 1911 work at long range. Mawson’s expedition was the first to connect Antarctica to the outside world by radio.
What did Douglas Mawson do in the Antarctic Expedition?
After his participation in Shackleton’s expedition, Mawson became the principal instigator of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition (1911–1914). The expedition explored thousands of kilometres of previously unexplored regions, collected geological and botanical samples, and made important scientific observations.
Why was Douglas Mawson a national hero in Australia?
Douglas Mawson is a national hero. He was a remarkable explorer and the expeditions he led helped claim for Australia 42 per cent of Antarctica. He is also famous for one of the most extraordinary feats of endurance in the history of Antarctic exploration. But Mawson was first and foremost a scientist.
Why was Mawson Station in Antarctica named after him?
In recognition of his achievements in Antarctica, Mawson station, established in 1954, was named after him. By leading Australia’s first Antarctic research expedition, Mawson became an internationally acclaimed scientist and explorer. His face is well known today, having adorned postage stamps and the Australian $100 note.
How old was Sir Douglas Mawson when he died?
When the film was shown in England it was seen by explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who later appointed Hurley as official photographer for his 1914 polar expedition. Sir Douglas died at the age of 76 in 1958 and you can read this article published on the day of his passing.