The continent with only 11 permanent citizens: 10 fascinating facts about Antarctica
Antarctica is well-known as the Earth’s most extreme outpost — it’s freezing, lonely, and mysterious. In winter, temperatures plunge even below -80°C. Months can pass without sunlight, and some stretches haven’t seen a drop of rain in nearly two million years. Yet this icy land still captures the world’s imagination, drawing scientists, explorers, and dreamers to its endless white. What’s more interesting? Covered by ice sheets holding around 70% of the planet’s freshwater, the continent plays a crucial role in regulating Earth’s climate and ocean systems.But what surprises many people the most is that Antarctica has no permanent human population in the way other continents do. Sure, thousands of scientists and support staff temporarily live there throughout the year, but only a tiny number of people can technically claim any form of Antarctic “citizenship” through birth or long-term residency connections. At certain points during winter, some remote stations may have only a handful of people remaining across enormous stretches of ice-covered land.So, how come this continent has permanent citizens? Turns out, the common knowledge of Antarctica having 11 permanent residents comes more from trivia than solid facts. Per Explorer’s Web, the rumor about the "11 citizens" likely stems from a well-known historical fact: at least 11 babies have been born on the continent.The reason behind such a low population? Nobody really “lives” here like on other continents. Sure, thousands come and go for research and supply runs, but no one’s born here, and nobody puts down roots for life. It’s more outpost than home.What’s so fascinating about Antarctica? Here are ten reasons it’s in a league of its own.