Antarctica has no indigenous or permanent residents. Only temporary scientific and support personnel live at research stations, with populations fluctuating from about 1,000 in winter to around 4,000–5,000 in summer
Human presence and research stations
Rather than permanent communities, Antarctica hosts seasonal and rotating populations at national research stations, field camps and logistical hubs. Scientists, technicians and support staff arrive for field seasons or multi‑year assignments, then depart, so no one establishes long‑term civilian residency on the continent.
Population fluctuation and logistics
The number of people on Antarctica varies by season and mission requirements. Winter populations are small and tightly supported, while summer brings larger scientific campaigns that temporarily increase station populations. Logistics, extreme weather and limited infrastructure shape how teams are staffed and rotated.
Legal protections and governance
Antarctica is governed through international agreements, chiefly the Antarctic Treaty system and the Protocol on Environmental Protection, which designate the continent for peaceful purposes and scientific research, prohibit military activities and regulate environmental impact and resource exploitation.
Environmental priority and scientific value
The continent’s lack of permanent population preserves large, relatively undisturbed environments that serve as natural laboratories for climate science, glaciology, marine biology and astronomy. Researchers study ice cores, ecosystems and atmospheric processes to understand global change and Earth system dynamics.
Why it matters
Antarctica’s temporary human presence, strong legal protections and scientific focus make it unique among continents. Its remoteness and extreme conditions both limit human impact and amplify the importance of careful stewardship to protect fragile ecosystems and the data they provide about planetary change.