Are there any long-term plans for Antarctic colonization?
It seems like it would take the strain off overpopulation, it would be cheaper than space colonization, and there would be plenty of available water. A: It’s true that seven nations claim parts of Antarctica – the United States is not one of them – but no nation controls any part of Antarctica. The Antarctic Treaty provides the legal framework for the region beyond 60 degrees south latitude. It reserves the region for peaceful purposes, prohibits nuclear explosions and radioactive waste, permits inspection of installations, defers territorial claims, and encourages international cooperation in scientific research. The seven nations who make claims have all signed the treaty. Under it, they didn’t give up the claims, but do little to assert them. Under the treaty, people from any nation are free to go where they like in Antarctica, but they must follow the environmental rules outlined in the treaty. U.S. non-recognition of the other nations’ claims goes back to 1924. And U.S. presidents
