Earth has two polar regions—the Arctic and the Antarctic. These polar regions are largely treeless landscapes, home to animals adapted to withstand severe conditions. Polar regions are also fascinating spaces in which National Geographic Explorers study our changing climate, learning about the impacts of warming temperatures that thaw frozen soil known as permafrost.

Use this collection as a companion material for the Museum of Exploration’s outdoor Courtyard. You can also explore more Museum of Exploration Education Resource collections.