©Matthieuheidi Atcamp Desktop|Under Antarctica

Val d'Isère is supporting polar science By joining forces with the Under Antarctica expedition

Val d’Isère is joining forces with an extraordinary expedition: Under Antarctica, the first kite-ski expedition to cross Antarctica, supporting polar science.

A one-of-a-kind scientific and human adventure

Explorer, Matthieu Tordeur and glaciologist Dr Heïdi Sevestre, driven by the same thirst for exploration and knowledge, set off on 3 November 2025 to cross the 4,000 km of this ice cap.

Their mission, under the aegis of UNESCO and supported by the French President, is to map the depths of the White Continent using ground-penetrating radar. The ultimate goal is to better understand glacial dynamics and anticipate the effects of climate change.

With the looming collapse of West Antarctica’s ice sheet and the potential for a 4-metre rise in sea levels, this expedition is both a technical triumph and a powerful platform for raising awareness. It represents a union of adventure, research, and dedication in confronting the challenges of climate change.

Watch a video of the expedition

©Photos Apidae Publication Instagram 45|Under Antarctica

©Photos Apidae Publication Instagram 45 1|Under Antarctica

Val d'Isère Partner mountains of the Under Antarctica mission

As the only mountain destination to partner in this expedition, Val d’Isère is showcasing its vision of a vibrant, conscious mountain that actively embraces change.
This partnership reflects the values that unite our destination and the explorers: excellence, teamwork, respect for life, and the relentless pursuit of surpassing limits.

“Supporting this expedition is a way of expressing our conviction that mountain regions have a role to play in advancing knowledge and protecting the climate.”

Patrick Martin, Mayor of Val d'Isère

Concrete actions to raise awareness and pass on knowledge

Val d’Isère supports the expedition beyond the polar field, through several local and educational initiatives:

An educational project with the Val d’Isère school: pupils from years 3 to 6 will learn all about climate issues and polar science through educational workbooks and inspiring testimonies from people like Dr Heïdi Sevestre as part of the Girls in Maths/Science programme. You can sign up to receive your educational workbook every week and learn more about the region, its vast ice cap and what actually happens on a scientific expedition.
A public meeting in Val d’Isère: A chance to meet the explorers and hear about their adventure and discoveries.

Receive an educational workbook every Wednesday

Flocon Vert Val d’Isère's commitment to sustainability

For several decades now, Val d’Isère has been actively involved in the protection of its exceptional environment, with 60% of the territory classified as a protected natural area. Our destination is proud to boast the Flocon Vert label, and is audited and supported by the Mountain Riders association to ensure sustainable and measurable actions.

Supporting a scientific expedition like Under Antarctica aligns with this same approach, connecting the mountain world with the realm of research, to prepare for the future of generations to come.