Glen Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Glen Glacier |
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 Location in Antarctica
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| Location | Coats Land |
| Coordinates | 80°44′S 25°16′W / 80.733°S 25.267°W |
| Length | 7 nmi (13 km; 8 mi) |
| Thickness | unknown |
| Terminus | Shackleton Range |
| Status | unknown |
Glen Glacier is a long river of ice found in a very cold place called Antarctica. It stretches for at least 7 nautical miles (about 13 kilometers) and flows south through a mountain range known as the Shackleton Range. This amazing glacier eventually joins up with another huge glacier called Recovery Glacier.
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Discovering Glen Glacier
Glen Glacier was first mapped in 1957. This important work was done by a group of explorers from the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition (CTAE). They were exploring and mapping parts of Antarctica.
What is a Glacier?
A glacier is a huge, slow-moving river of ice. It forms over many years as layers of snow pile up and get compressed. The weight of the new snow squeezes the old snow into ice. Glaciers are found in places where it is cold enough for snow to stay on the ground all year. They can be found on mountains or in very cold regions like Antarctica.
Where is Glen Glacier Located?
Glen Glacier is located in Coats Land, which is a part of Antarctica. It flows through the Shackleton Range, a group of mountains in this icy continent. The glacier flows south and meets the larger Recovery Glacier. This area is extremely cold and covered in ice and snow.
The Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition
The Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition (CTAE) was a big adventure that took place from 1955 to 1958. Its main goal was to be the first expedition to cross the entire continent of Antarctica by land. This was a very challenging journey. The expedition also spent time mapping different areas, including where Glen Glacier is found. Their maps helped us learn more about this remote part of the world.
Who was Alexander R. Glen?
Glen Glacier was named after Alexander R. Glen. He was an important person who helped the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition. Mr. Glen was a member of the Committee of Management for the CTAE from 1955 to 1958. This committee helped organize and manage the entire expedition. Naming the glacier after him was a way to honor his contributions to this historic journey.
