Women in Antarctic Science: Barriers Overcome and Achievements Attained
Women in Antarctic Science: Barriers Overcome and Achievements Attained
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Original abstract
Abstract: The history of women in Antarctic research provides a powerful example of unjust barriers followed by a solid record of achievement once those barriers were lifted. Early exploration of the Antarctic was an all-male domain, and reluctance to allow female participation continued well into the twentieth century. As gender discrimination in many arenas became increasingly unacceptable in the second half of the century, country by country began allowing women participation in Antarctic exploration and science. Women quickly proved their worth both in the physical abilities needed in the harsh Antarctic environment and in the intellectual abilities needed for making scientific contributions. By now, women have emerged as major players in all realms of Antarctic science, from drilling ice cores and engaging in ground surveys to developing and analyzing satellite datasets and using computer models to predict and analyze future Antarctic conditions. This article presents a short summary of some of the history of the inclusion of women on Antarctic research expeditions and a sample of major advances women have made to Antarctic science in recent decades. The sample highlights contributions of six women in the following six key research areas: the Antarctic Ozone Hole, the Antarctic Ice Sheet, Antarctic sea ice, Antarctic atmosphere and ice/atmosphere interactions, Antarctic ice cores, and the Antarctic future. Horrendous instances of gender discrimination and mistreatment continue to occur, but the progress made since the mid-twentieth century has been remarkable.