What are you researching Antarctica for?
"Antarctic Museum"

Antarctica does not belong to any country, and various countries are conducting surveys. Why are they researching Antarctica?

The Antarctic Museum on the 2nd floor introduces the history and results of Antarctic research in an easy-to-understand manner.

During the Fuji era, a Japanese expedition discovered the Antarctic meteorite and ozone hole for the first time in the world. In addition, global-scale research is being conducted on the mechanism of the generation of aurora by rocket observation, the relationship with greenhouse gases, and so on.

For example, the left side of the photo is Antarctic ice.

Antarctic ice is compacted snow, which is white because it traps the atmosphere. By studying the atmosphere inside the ice, we can understand what it was like in the past. The results of these surveys are used in research on greenhouse gases. Antarctic observations are not just about the Antarctic itself, but also lead to various research on the environment and space.

What kind of animals live in Antarctica?

Antarctica, which is covered with ice, is home to very few creatures such as penguins, seabirds, and seals. Antarctic krill supports the life of such creatures. At the adjacent "Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium", the world's only successful breeding of "Antarctic krill". Please check it out.

This corner introduces the history of adventurers aiming for Antarctica. You can learn about the history of research ships, from the first Antarctic research ship “Soya” to the current “Shirase”.

The Gokkan Dramatic Theater is a must-see experience at the Antarctic Museum. With four large screens on the front, both sides, and the floor, you can experience a simulated experience of sailing in Antarctica! Enchanted by the beautiful scenery of Antarctica.

When you go outside, you can see a helicopter that was active in transporting goods up close! Antarctica sometimes cannot be reached near the continent. In such cases, helicopters are used.

Finally, let's go to the control room!

Fuji's Command Tower "Navigation Bridge (control room)"

On the top floor is the navigation bridge (control room), which is equipped with the instruments necessary for maneuvering the ship. It is Fuji's control tower that supported the total cruising distance of 680,000 km (17 laps around the earth).

It's exciting to think that this ship has actually visited Antarctica 18 times!

There was also a table showing the contents and speed of the command to perform the "charging" that appeared earlier.

The interior of the ship, which was left as it was at the time, was full of realism, and we were able to experience a simulated trip to Antarctica. Detailed explanations are also provided in each corner, so you can learn in an easy-to-understand manner. We also learned that Antarctic observations are being used for environmental issues and space research.

Be sure to visit Antarctic Observation Ship FUJI!