Beneath Antarctica Val d’Isère is committed to polar science

Val d’Isère is partnering with an extraordinary expedition: Under Antarctica, the first kite-skiing crossing of Antarctica dedicated to polar science.

News update, 28 November 2025

A scientific adventure and an unprecedented human experience

Driven by the same thirst for exploration and knowledge,Matthieu Tordeur, an explorer, andDr Heïdi Sevestre, a glaciologist, set off on 3 November 2025 to travel 4,000 km across the ice sheet.

Under the auspices ofUNESCOand with the patronage of the President of the Republic, their mission aims to map the depths of the white continent using ground-penetrating radar. The aim isto gain a better understanding of glacial dynamics and anticipate the effects of climate change.

With West Antarctica threatening to collapse and cause sea levels to rise by 4 metres, this expedition is both a technical feat and a campaign to raise awareness. It embodies the combination of adventure, research and commitment to tackling climate challenges.

Val d'Isère Mountain partner from the Under Antarctica mission

As the only mountain destination partnering with this expedition, Val d’Isère is using this partnership to reaffirm its vision of a vibrant, environmentally conscious mountain region that drives change.

This partnership reflects the values shared by our destination and the explorers: high standards, team spirit, respect for all living things and a quest to push boundaries.

“Supporting this expedition is a way of affirming a simple conviction: mountain regions have a role to play in understanding and preserving the climate.” Patrick Martin, Mayor of Val d’Isère, at the launch of the mission.