The Second German Antarctic Expedition of 1911–1913, led by Wilhelm Filchner, sought to determine whether the Antarctic continent consisted of two separate landmasses. While his ship, the Deutschland, became trapped in the Weddell Sea ice for eight months, the endeavor yielded significant scientific results despite internal conflicts that compromised his leadership and effectively ended his polar career.
Early Military and Asian Explorations
Born in Munich in 1877, Filchner attended the Prussian Military Academy at age 15. In 1898, he briefly explored Russia before conducting a notable expedition to the Pamir Mountains, traveling by horseback between Osh and Kashgar. These early experiences provided the foundation for his reputation as a daring traveler and researcher.
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Supported by the army and encouraged by geographers like Sven Hedin, Filchner led a scientific survey across Tibet and western China from 1903 to 1905. He reached the upper Hwang Ho river, at times adopting the disguise of a Muslim priest to bypass danger. Tensions with his assistant Albert Tafel during this period highlighted recurring difficulties in his command style.
The Weddell Sea Expedition
In 1909, Filchner began preparations for a polar journey to test Albrecht Penck’s hypothesis regarding the separation of East and West Antarctica. The expedition faced immediate structural issues due to a divided command system between himself and the captain of the Deutschland, Richard Vahsel. After failing to establish a land base, the crew conducted extensive oceanographic research before returning to Europe.
Later Life and Research
Following his military service in the First World War, Filchner focused on solitary magnetic surveys throughout China and Tibet. The onset of the Second World War left him interned in India for several years. Upon returning to Europe, he retired to Zurich, where he remained until his death in 1957. His contributions to geography were recognized through numerous honors, including the Carl-Ritter-Medal and the Carus medal.
Fast facts
- Born: 1877, Munich
- Died: 1957, Zurich
- Education: Prussian Military Academy
- Primary Field: Land Exploration
- Key Expedition: Second German Antarctic Expedition (1911–1913)
- Notable Award: Carl-Ritter-Medal (1908)
- Membership: German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina
Questions readers ask
Why did the 1911 Antarctic expedition fail to establish a land base?
The ship Deutschland became trapped in the Weddell Sea ice for eight months, preventing the party from reaching the shore as planned.
What scientific contributions did Filchner make during his career?
He conducted extensive magnetic surveys in China and Tibet and gathered critical oceanographic data in the Atlantic during his polar expedition.
Achievements
- Carus medal
- Carl-Ritter-Medal
- honorary golden medal of the state capital Munich
- Recorded as explorer, writer and researcher
