Schweitzer Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Schweitzer Glacier |
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 Location in Antarctica
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| Location | Coats Land |
| Coordinates | 77°50′S 34°40′W / 77.833°S 34.667°W |
| Thickness | unknown |
| Terminus | Vahsel Bay |
| Status | unknown |
The Schweitzer Glacier (pronounced Shvite-zer) is a large river of ice located in Antarctica. It flows west, moving slowly along the northern side of the Littlewood Nunataks (which are rocky peaks sticking out of the ice). This glacier eventually reaches and empties into Vahsel Bay.
Another glacier, the Lerchenfeld Glacier, flows from the west-northwest and joins up with the lower part of the Schweitzer Glacier. Together, these ice masses form a powerful flow towards the sea.
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Exploring the Schweitzer Glacier
Who Discovered This Glacier?
The Schweitzer Glacier was first found by the German Antarctic Expedition. This journey happened between 1911 and 1912. The expedition was led by a brave explorer named Wilhelm Filchner.
How Did It Get Its Name?
Wilhelm Filchner decided to name this glacier after Major Schweitzer. Major Schweitzer was an important person. He was the first president of the German Antarctic Expedition Society. This society helped make the expedition possible. Naming the glacier after him was a way to honor his support.
Where is Schweitzer Glacier Located?
The Schweitzer Glacier is found in a part of Antarctica called Coats Land. This area is known for its vast ice sheets and glaciers. The glacier's exact location is at 77 degrees 50 minutes South and 34 degrees 40 minutes West. This position places it deep within the icy continent.
The glacier's journey ends when it reaches Vahsel Bay. This bay is an inlet of the Weddell Sea. Glaciers often break apart into icebergs when they reach the ocean. This process is called calving.
