Ross Sea, Antarctica – Drone footage captured on January 12, 2026 shows the USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10) navigating and breaking through thick ice in the Ross Sea during Operation Deep Freeze 2026.

The video highlights the ship’s icebreaking capabilities as it moves steadily through frozen waters, clearing paths for scientific and logistical operations in the region. Crew members were seen taking part in ice liberty while the vessel maneuvered through the ice-packed ocean.

Operation Deep Freeze is a joint-service, inter-agency mission conducted for the National Science Foundation, which manages the United States Antarctic Program. The Polar Star’s work is essential for supporting research and operations across Antarctica.

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