The book vividly describes India's epoch-making, daring scientific adventure in the icy continent of Antarctica; It narrates the story of a group of 12 scientists and soldiers, who helped to establish the first ever over-wintering Indian base, Dakshin Gangotri on a floating ice shelf in Antarctica.
Beginning with a description of the voyage to Antarctica through the roaring forties, icebergs, pack ice and fast sea ice, the book recounts the painstaking process of selecting a construction site for Dakshin Gangotri on a 400m thick continental ice shelf and the construction of the station right from its foundation to the commissioning of the life-support systems.
The book then describes the hair-raising incidents of the long Antarctic blizzards where the wind many a time touched over 250km/h with snow flying all around, which threatened the very existence of the base. It highlights the ardours struggles of psychological and biological adjustment with the mid-night sun and polar night with the temperature going down to as low as -60°C.
The book also highlights the beauty of the aurora Australis, polar shadows, mirage effects and other optical illusions. Presents an intriguing account of the expeditions through the polar ice cap with deep crevasses, flowing rivers and treacherous lakes, glaciers andnunataks.
The teams gallant efforts put India on the world map amongst the scientifically-advanced nations. The nation rewarded the teams achievement by awarding one Kirti Chakra, two Shaurya Chakras, five Sena Medals and one Vishishtha Sewa Medal, which is the highest number of national awards won by any national mission.
This book now includes a vivid account of the later expeditions to Antarctica along with their contribution to Indian scientific research.
The book, written by the leader of the team with a Foreword by Padma Vibhushan Dr. S.Z. Qasim, former member, Planning Commission and Secretary, Department of Ocean Development, is illustrated with over 45 coloured photographs and maps.