Antarctica

Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth, situated around the South Pole. It is the fifth-largest continent in size and the coldest, driest, and windiest of all, with the highest average elevation of any continent. Antarctica is almost entirely covered by a massive ice sheet and holds 70% of the planet's fresh water. There are no permanent residents, but various nations maintain scientific research stations across the continent. The population of these stations ranges from about 1,000 people in winter to about 5,000 during the summer. Antarctica is a uniquely governed territory, regulated by the Antarctic Treaty, which prohibits military activities, promotes scientific research, and protects the local ecosystem.