Vinson Massif is the highest point in Antarctica. The height of Mount Vinson reaches 4892 meters above sea level. Vinson Massif is located about 1200 km from the South Pole.
 |
| Mount Vinson in Antarctica |
Scientists have long suspected that there are high mountains in the western part of Antarctica, but, until 1958, no researcher experimentally confirmed the existence of the Vinson Massif. For the first time, the Vinson mountain range was discovered from the cockpit. By the way, the aviator who saw the mountain range bore the name Vinson. But the mountains were named not for the pilot, but for the glory of Carl Vinson, a Georgia deputy who was one of the supporters of funding scientific research in Antarctica.
 |
| Mount Vinson in Antarctica |
First measurements of Mount Vinson were somewhat inaccurate: then the height of the massif was 5140 meters. Accurate data on the height of the Vinson Massif were obtained in 1980, when an expedition of Russian climbers climbed the mountain and hoisted the USSR flag.
 |
| Mount Vinson in Antarctica |
Vinson Massif is a very beautiful place with a lot to see. In the warm season, there is not a cloud in the sky over the Vinson Massif; the sun shining around the clock raises the air temperature to thirty degrees (below zero). Due to the bright sunlight and rising temperatures, the air begins to melt snow.
In winter there is pitch darkness, a strong gusty wind blows, there is a heavy snowfall.