Those maps a fascinating and I actually have a thing for maps, especially old ones. I think I am looking at everything in a new light at the moment. Too much time alone in lockdown and opening up my mind a bit! I think it must have been 'discovered' long before it was official, and all the countries around the globe have fought over it, I think that was part of the reason for the falklands war, having a land base so close to Antarctica, I mean what's the appeal if it's just a chunk of ice and some penguinsAntarctica is a curious place. Have you come across these maps?
1592 Ortelius Map of the World: Typus Orbis Terrarum
Rare Map for Sale: 1592 Ortelius Map of the World: Typus Orbis Terrarum at Geographicus Rare Antique Mapswww.geographicus.comAntarctica Was Discovered In 1773 But This Mysterious Map From 1513 Might Include It
The Piri Reis map was created in 1513, 260 years before James Cook discovered Antarctica.allthatsinteresting.com
I have read the stories before about it being used as a base. I know someone that did a year as a meteorologist with British Antarctic Survey, but sounded like she didn't do much (this was 20 years ago). They do seem determined to keep us, Joanna and Joe Bloggs, away from there. Given how many children go missing officially, and the add in those under the care of the state, it is quite possible children could end up there.
I have worked with someone who was on a British Antarctic Survey expedition, he showed me some photos but I have always taken Antarctica at face value of being a great ice expanse, but I have always wondered what's beneath the ice and when did it freeze over etc, I can't say I'm very educated on the subject. I will be paying a lot more attention now.