Ice Liberty Coast Guard Polar Star crew members observe penguins during ice liberty in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, Jan. 12, 2026. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, most inhospitable continent on the globe, and each trip requires careful planning and coordination. SHARE: Download: Full Size (0.66 MB) Tags: polar star, coast guard Credit: Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Bokum VIRIN: 260112-G-FN033-9928.JPG Photo Gallery